How to Customize Apple Pencil Squeeze Gestures

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open Pencil settings

   Open the Settings app on your iPad. Navigate to the sidebar and tap Apple Pencil.

2. 15 sec

   Access Squeeze options

   Under the Squeeze section, you will see the current assigned action. Tap the Squeeze menu to view available custom configurations.

3. 15 sec

   Assign a primary function

   Select your preferred interaction from the list. Choices typically include Show Color Palette, Show Tool Palette, Show Ink Attributes, or Off.

   Note: Selecting Show Tool Palette allows you to quickly swap between brushes without moving your hand.
4. 30 sec

   Adjust squeeze sensitivity

   If the gesture feels too rigid or too sensitive, navigate back to the main Apple Pencil menu. Adjust the Squeeze Sensitivity slider to match your grip pressure.

   Note: Standard is the default setting; use Light if you prefer minimal physical resistance.
5. 30 sec

   Test the gesture

   Open a compatible application such as Notes or Freeform. Perform a firm squeeze on the barrel of the Apple Pencil Pro to ensure the tool palette or color menu appears as expected.