The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features a built-in S Pen designed to offer seamless precision for writing, drawing, and controlling your device. But if your S Pen isn’t working properly—such as unresponsive input, intermittent Bluetooth disconnection, or lag—it can affect your productivity and user experience. Fortunately, most S Pen issues are easy to diagnose and fix. In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind S Pen malfunction on the Galaxy S23 Ultra and how to solve them.
🖊️ Common S Pen Problems on Galaxy S23 Ultra
- S Pen not writing or responding to touch.
- Air Actions (gestures) not working.
- S Pen disconnected or not detected.
- Lag or delay in input.
- Bluetooth features not functioning.
✅ S Pen Not Responding to Screen Input
If your S Pen is not writing, drawing, or selecting items on the screen, it could be due to hardware obstruction, screen protector issues, or settings.
Fix:
- Restart the phone – A quick reboot can refresh device drivers.
- Remove screen protector or case – Some third-party protectors interfere with S Pen sensitivity.
- Test in Safe Mode:
- Press and hold the Power button, then tap and hold Power off, and select Safe Mode.
- Test the S Pen here. If it works, a third-party app may be the cause.
Check Settings:
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > S Pen.
- Enable S Pen to text, Air view, and Show pointer to ensure detection features are working.
📶 Bluetooth Disconnected or Not Detected
The S Pen on the S23 Ultra includes Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) for remote functions like camera shutter, media control, and Air Actions.
Fix:
- Check S Pen Connection:
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > S Pen > Air Actions.
- Ensure it says “Connected” under S Pen remote.
- If not, remove and reinsert the S Pen to force a reconnect.
- Charge the S Pen by inserting it into the phone for at least 30 seconds.
- Toggle Air Actions OFF and ON again to refresh the connection.
🔄Air Actions Not Working
Air Actions allow you to control your phone with S Pen gestures. If these aren’t working, it’s likely due to gesture miscalibration or disabled settings.
Fix:
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > S Pen > Air Actions.
- Make sure Air Actions are turned on.
- Tap the 3-dot menu > Reset S Pen, then re-pair the S Pen.
- Practice gestures slowly—fast or incorrect angles can fail to register.
🔋S Pen Needs Charging
Bluetooth features on the S Pen won’t work unless it’s charged.
Fix:
- Insert the S Pen into its slot for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Ensure your phone is not in power-saving mode, as this may disable Bluetooth features.
- Avoid using cases that interfere with proper docking or charging of the S Pen.
🧼Debris in the S Pen Slot
Dust or particles inside the S Pen slot can cause poor connection or failure to detect.
Fix:
- Use a clean, dry soft brush or compressed air to gently clean the slot.
- Do not insert pins or sharp objects which can damage internal contacts.
🧠Software Bugs or Outdated Firmware
Occasionally, a software bug can cause issues with S Pen functionality or responsiveness.
Fix:
- Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install to check for any pending updates.
- Samsung often includes S Pen improvements in One UI or firmware patches.
🔁Reset S Pen Settings
If none of the above works, resetting your S Pen settings can often fix unknown configuration problems.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > S Pen.
- Tap Air Actions.
- Tap the 3-dot menu (top right) and choose Reset S Pen.
- Wait for the device to re-pair with the S Pen.
🧪Run Diagnostics via Samsung Members App
Samsung’s built-in diagnostic tool can help you identify if there’s a hardware fault.
How to use:
- Open the Samsung Members app.
- Go to Support > Phone diagnostics > S Pen.
- Follow the prompts to test functionality.
📦S Pen Is Damaged or Faulty
If your S Pen is physically damaged or malfunctioning, it might need replacement.
Signs:
- No response even after reset and charging.
- Visible cracks or water damage.
- Completely unrecognized by the phone.
Solution:
- Try using another Galaxy S23 Ultra S Pen (from a friend or store).
- If that works, your S Pen may need replacement. Contact Samsung Support or visit a service center.
🚫 S Pen Features Disabled in Battery Saver
Battery saver mode can disable Bluetooth and background services required for S Pen gestures.
Fix:
- Go to Settings > Battery and device care > Battery > Power saving.
- Turn it OFF, or ensure Limit apps and home screen is not enabled.
- Set S Pen and system apps to Unrestricted in Battery usage settings.
✅ Summary Table
| Problem | Solution |
| S Pen not writing | Restart phone, check screen protector, Safe Mode |
| Air Actions not working | Reset S Pen, check gesture settings |
| S Pen not connecting via Bluetooth | Charge S Pen, toggle Air Actions |
| Charging issues | Insert into slot, clean contacts |
| Lag or slow input | Clear app cache, check software updates |
| S Pen not detected | Run Samsung diagnostics, reset settings, or replace S Pen |
Conclusion
Your Galaxy S23 Ultra’s S Pen is a powerful tool, but small issues—whether with settings, charging, or software—can hinder its performance. By systematically checking for charging, Bluetooth connectivity, gesture configuration, and firmware issues, most problems can be resolved without needing a replacement. If all else fails, Samsung’s diagnostics or support team can help determine whether you need a new S Pen.
