Turning on an Apple wireless keyboard is not difficult.
The Apple wireless keyboard is switched on by a small slide switch on the back or top to one side or a power button on the right, as shown below.
The toggle switch is normal on newer wireless keyboards, whereas the power button is on older versions. Pair it with the computer after turning it on for the first time.
Sliding Switch
If you have a wireless Magic Keyboard, the keyboard on/off switch is on the back right edge of the keyboard.
This is normal on newer Apple Magic keyboards and near the lightning connector.
Here’s a closer look at the view from the back:
Slide it to turn it on or off. If turning it on, the green background will be visible like this:
Push Button
If it’s a wireless keyboard with a push button, push and hold it for a second or two until the green power indicator light on the front of the keyboard comes on.
After a second, the light will go out after a successful pairing but will blink if unsuccessful. It means the keyboard is discoverable and ready to be paired.
Power Indicator
The table below gives the meanings of the power indicator light.
| Power Indicator Light | Meaning |
| Steady glow upon turning on for 3-5 seconds, then turns off | The keyboard is turned on, and the batteries are good. |
| Blinking | The keyboard is in discovery mode and ready to be paired with the computer (or other device). |
| Turned off after blinking | The keyboard is still unpaired. Turn the keyboard off, then on again to pair. |
| Off (even after switching on) | You may need to recharge or change the batteries. |
Connecting to the Wireless Keyboard
Follow these two simple steps to connect to the wireless keyboard on the computer or other device once it’s turned on:
- Open Settings on the device and select Bluetooth. If Bluetooth is off, toggle the Bluetooth switch and wait for it to discover the wireless keyboard.
- Under “Other Devices,” select the Magic Keyboard.
The Apple wireless keyboard will be ready to use when you see it in the My Devices section.
Troubleshooting
Failure to Recognize the Keyboard
If the Mac doesn’t recognize the wireless keyboard, use the USB-C to Lightning cable to first pair it, disconnect the cable, then use the keyboard wirelessly. It’s the same cable you use to charge the keyboard.
Keyboard Not Being Discovered
If the device fails to discover the keyboard and the keyboard is on, turn it off and then on again.
The Power Key is Not Working
This applies to the round power button on the side of older wireless keyboards. If there’s a mechanical problem with it, cut around the edges of the button to loosen it. Pull the button out and either repair or replace it. Then, push it back in.
References
Keyboard. https://support.apple.com