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The iPad has been a popular tablet among millions of customers around the world since its launch in 2010. If you want to get the most out of your iPad, you need to know the ins and outs, and that’s where we come in! We’ve compiled a list of top tips and tricks that cater to both beginners and iPad experts alike with secret features to help you become a pro.
For those who are looking to buy an Apple tablet instead of using them, our iPad buying guide and rundown of the best iPad deals offer great advice.
The Basics
Change the Background Wallpaper
Customize your iPad by changing the wallpaper for your lock and home screen. Simply go to Settings, tap on Background, then select Choose New Background. You can choose from a variety of built-in dynamic wallpapers or browse your own photo library. From there, you can preview your selected wallpaper and choose to apply it as a general wallpaper, lock screen, or home screen background. Here’s how to change the background on an iPad in detail.
Manage Storage
If you’re running out of space on your iPad, check what’s taking up the most storage. Open the Settings app and go to General > iPad Storage. This page lists your apps by used storage and the date you last used them, making it easier to decide which apps you can live without. iOS also offers suggestions to optimize your storage utilization. Find out how to manage storage on your iPad here.
Set Location-based Reminders
The Reminders app enables you to set location-based notifications. Create a reminder and select “Remind me at a location.” Choose from current locations, addresses from your address book, or add a custom location. You’ll receive a notification for the reminder when you reach the designated location. Here’s how to use the Reminders app more efficiently.
iPad Text-to-speech
Enable the Speak option to have your iPad read any selectable text. Go to Settings > General > Accessibility and turn on the Speak option. You can adjust the speaking speed and choose from different voices. Now, you can select a text in any app, tap Speak, and your iOS device will start reading the text aloud. Learn how to use text-to-speech on your iPad in detail.
Enable the Emoji Keyboard
Access a wide range of emoji symbols by adding the Emoji keyboard. Go to Settings > General > International > Keyboards > Add New Keyboard, and select Emoji. Tap the globe icon next to the space bar to switch to the Emoji keyboard. Learn everything else you can do with Emojis on iPad.
Multitasking on an iPad
iPad mini 2, iPad Air, and later models divide multitasking into three groups: scrolling, split-view, and picture-in-picture. The slide-over feature enables an iPhone-like app for multitasking with a side window on one-third of the screen. Split-view mode allows both apps to be used simultaneously, adjust their interface by tapping and holding the divider between the apps. Picture-in-picture mode helps users watch videos or FaceTime people while using other apps.
Use the Dock
Access the Dock from any screen or within any app by swiping up from the bottom of the screen. The Dock keeps track of your most recently used apps, making it easier to switch between apps and multitask seamlessly. You can also swipe up on an app in the Dock and drag it to the right side of the screen to open it in split-view mode. Learn more about the Dock and how to use it efficiently.
Tap to Go Up
Navigate quickly to the top of any app or web page by tapping the top bar. This tip works on many apps, including third-party apps, and saves you plenty of scrolling time.
Use Volume Buttons to Take Photos
Take photos conveniently on your iPad by using the volume buttons while in landscape mode. The location of the buttons makes capturing a perfect shot easier than ever.
Let your loved ones know your whereabouts by sharing your location via the Maps app. Select a pushpin or your current location marker, then tap the arrow, and finally tap the Share button. Choose where you want to share your location, including Messages and social media platforms. Alternatively, use the Find My Friends app to share your location with a selected person.
Download a Single Track from Apple Music
While streaming is great, what if your internet connection’s unavailable, and you want to listen to your favorite song? Apple Music subscribers can download an individual track by tapping the menu button next to each song on the My Music tab, and tap Make Available Offline. Find out more about managing downloads on Apple music.
We hope that these tips and tricks help make your iPad experience even more enjoyable!
Next: Frequently asked questions about iPads >>
Frequently Asked Questions About iPads
1. Can I use a mouse with my iPad?
Yes, Apple allows the use of a mouse or trackpad with the iPadOS 13.4 update or later.
2. Can I connect a keyboard to my iPad?
Of course! You may use an Apple Smart Keyboard, Bluetooth keyboard, or compatible third-party keyboard depending on your iPad’s model and compatibility.