Connect S Pen error displays on your Galaxy tablet

Last Update date : Oct 07. 2020
Connect S Pen error displays on your Galaxy tablet

If you receive an error that says you need to connect your S Pen to your tablet, it could be because the pen needs to charge or because it's too far away from your device. Another possibility is that you are using a magnetic cover; this can happen when using a non-Samsung cover. A magnetic cover might interfere with the S Pen. Remove the cover before using the S Pen.

Information provided applies to devices sold in Canada. Available screens and settings may vary for tablets sold in other countries.

Attach the S Pen to the tablet and it will begin charging. It should only take a few minutes to fully charge.

If you want to view the S Pen's battery percentage, tap on the floating Air Actions icon. The remaining battery power will be displayed at the top of the screen.

  • In order for Air actions or Remote features to work, the S Pen needs to be within 30 feet of your tablet with nothing in between.
  • If you are far from the tablet and you try to use the Air actions (such as opening the Camera with the S Pen), there will be a lag between the button click and the command.
  • If the S Pen is farther than 30 feet away, the connection will be lost. You will need to reconnect the S Pen by attaching it to the tablet.
  • If your S Pen is still not recognized by the tablet, remove any third-party cases or covers from your device. Then, reconnect the S Pen.

Make sure Airplane mode or Maximum power saving mode is not enabled. These modes automatically disconnect the S Pen.

If your S Pen becomes disconnected from your tablet while it is not being used, remove the S Pen and then reattach it to the tablet for a couple minutes. It will automatically reconnect. The connection time will vary slightly between different devices.

If the back of your Galaxy tablet comes into contact with a magnet, the S Pen may not be recognized.

Cases made by Samsung may contain magnets, but they have been designed to fit your tablet without interfering with its functions, including the S Pen. Verify that your non-Samsung case, or other accessories, are not magnetic.

If any of them are magnetic, remove that accessory and then try reinserting the S Pen.

If you customized any of the remote features or other settings, resetting the S Pen will return them to their defaults.

First, attach the S Pen to your Galaxy tablet.

From Settings, search for and select Air actions or S Pen remote. Tap the More options icon (the three vertical dots), and then tap Reset S Pen.

If you are still experiencing any issue, please visit our Support Centre to request additional assistance.

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