21,99 €
The perfect start-to-finish guide for iPad that anyone can use
iPad For Seniors For Dummies, 2025-2026 Edition is an up-to-date and straightforward guide for anyone who wants to know how to use one of Apple's famous tablets without all the muss, fuss, and jargon of more complicated resources. In this book, you'll find easy-to-read type, crisp figures and illustrations, and down-to-earth instructions that show you exactly how to get set up, customize your device, connect to the web, chat with your friends and family, listen to music, watch videos, download apps, and much more. You'll learn how to secure your tablet, so your data and privacy remain safe. You'll also discover how you can use your iPad to get organized, plan your schedule, and even connect to your home Wi-Fi.
Inside the book:
Perfect for anyone with a new iPad who's looking to get started on the right foot, iPad For Seniors For Dummies is also a can't-miss read for those in the senior crowd who have used iPads before and are looking to brush up on the basics—and the latest updates—of one of Apple's most popular products.
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Seitenzahl: 407
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025
Cover
Title Page
Copyright
Introduction
About This Book
Foolish Assumptions
Beyond the Book
Where to Go from Here
Part 1: Getting to Know Your iPad
Chapter 1: Buying Your iPad
Discover the Newest iPads and iPadOS 18
Choose the Right iPad for You
Decide How Much Storage Is Enough
Know What Else You May Need: Internet and Computer
Choose Wi-Fi Only or Wi-Fi + Cellular
Consider iPad Accessories
Explore What’s in the Box
Take a First Look at the Gadget
Chapter 2: Exploring Your iPad
See What You Need to Use the iPad
Turn On Your iPad for the First Time
Meet the Multitouch Screen
Say Hello to Tap and Swipe
Browsing the App Library
The Dock
Display and Use the Onscreen Keyboard
Use the Small Keyboard
Flick to Search
Easily Switch Between Apps
Use Slide Over and Split View
Examine the iPad Cameras
Discover Control Center
Understand Touch ID
Take a Look at Face ID
Lock Screen Rotation
Explore the Status Bar
Wonderful Widgets
Take Inventory of Preinstalled Apps
Lock iPad, Turn It Off, or Unlock It
Chapter 3: Beyond the Basics
Keep Your iPad's Operating System Updated
Charge the Battery
Sign into an Apple Account for Music, Movies, and More
Sync Wirelessly
Understand iCloud
Turn On iCloud Drive
Set Up iCloud Sync Settings
Browse Your iPad’s Files
Part 2: Beginning to Use Your iPad
Chapter 4: Making Your iPad More Accessible
Use Magnifier
Set Brightness and Night Shift
Change the Wallpaper
Set Up VoiceOver
Use VoiceOver
Make Additional Vision Settings
Use iPad with Hearing Aids
Adjust the Volume
Set Up Subtitles and Captioning
Say It with Live Speech and Personal Voice
Turn On and Work with AssistiveTouch
Turn On Additional Physical and Motor Settings
Focus Learning with Guided Access
Control Your iPad with Voice Control
Control Your iPad with Your Eyes
Control Your iPad with Vocal Shortcuts
Adjust Accessibility Settings on a Per-App Basis
Chapter 5: Conversing with Siri
Activate Siri
Discover All That Siri Can Do
Get Suggestions
Call Contacts via FaceTime
Create Reminders and Alerts
Add Events to Your Calendar
Play Music
Get Directions
Ask for Facts
Search the Web
Send Email, Messages, or Tweets
Use Dictation
Translate Words and Phrases
Chapter 6: Expanding Your iPad Horizons with Apps
Search the App Store
Get Applications from the App Store
Organize Your Applications on Home Screen Pages
Organize Apps in Folders
Delete Apps You No Longer Need
Update Apps
Purchase and Download Games
Chapter 7: Organizing Contacts
Add a Contact
Sync Contacts with iCloud
Add Photos to Contacts
Designate Related People
Set Individual Ringtones and Text Tones
Delete a Contact
Chapter 8: Getting Social with Your iPad
What You Need to Use FaceTime
An Overview of FaceTime
Make a FaceTime Call with Wi-Fi or Cellular
Use a Memoji with FaceTime
Accept, Enjoy, and End a FaceTime Call
Switch Views
Set Up an iMessage Account
Use Messages to Address, Create, and Send Messages
Read Messages
Clear a Conversation
Send Emojis with Your Text
Use Messages Apps and Tools
Send and Receive Audio
Send a Photo or Video
Send a Map of Your Location
Understand Group Messaging
Find and Install Social Media Apps
Create a Facebook Account
Create an X Account
Create an Instagram Account
Chapter 9: Browsing with Safari
Connect to the Internet
Explore Safari
Navigate Web Pages
Use Tabbed Browsing
Organize with Tab Groups
View Browsing History
Search the Web
Add and Use Bookmarks
Save Links and Web Pages to Safari Reading List
Enable Private Browsing
Download Files
Translate Web Pages
Chapter 10: Working with Email in Mail
Add an Email Account
Manually Set Up an Email Account
Open Mail and Read Messages
Reply To or Forward Email
Create and Send a New Message
Format Email
Search Email
Mark Email as Unread or Flag for Follow-Up
Create an Event from Email Contents
Delete Email
Organize Email
Create a VIP List
Part 3: Enjoying Media
Chapter 11: Shopping the iTunes Store and Apple TV
Explore the iTunes Store
Buy a Selection
Rent or Buy Movies and TV Shows
Use Apple Pay and Wallet
Set Up Family Sharing
Chapter 12: Reading Books
Find Books with Apple Books
Explore Other E-Book Sources
Buy Books
Navigate a Book
Customize Your Reading Experience
Chapter 13: Enjoying Music and Podcasts
View the Music Library
Create Playlists
Search for Music
Play Music
Shuffle Music
Listen with Your Earbuds
Listen with Spatial Audio
Use AirPlay
Play Music with Radio
Find and Subscribe to Podcasts
Play Podcasts
Chapter 14: Taking and Sharing Photos
Take Pictures with the iPad Cameras
View Your Photos
Edit Photos
Organize Photos
Share Photos via Mail, Social Media, or Other Apps
Share a Photo Using AirDrop
Share Photos Using iCloud Photo Sharing
Print Photos
Delete Photos
Chapter 15: Creating and Watching Videos
Capture Your Own Videos with the Built-In Cameras
Edit Videos
Play Movies or TV Shows with the TV App
Turn On Closed-Captioning
Delete a Video from the iPad
Part 4: Living with Your iPad
Chapter 16: Keeping on Schedule with Calendar and Clock
View Your Calendar
Add Calendar Events and Reminders
Add Events or Reminders with Siri
Create Repeating Events
View an Event
Add an Alert to an Event
Search for an Event
Add a Calendar Account
Use a Family Calendar
Delete an Event
Display the Clock App
Delete a Clock
Set an Alarm
Use Stopwatch and Timer
Chapter 17: Working with Reminders and Notifications
Create a Reminder
Edit Reminder Details
Schedule a Reminder by Time, Location, or When Messaging
Create a List
Sync with Other Devices and Calendars
Mark as Complete or Delete a Reminder
Get Notified!
Stay Focused and Undisturbed
Chapter 18: Making Notes
Open a Blank Note
Use Copy and Paste
Insert Attachments
Add a Drawing or Handwriting
Apply a Text Style
Create a Checklist
Delete a Note
Speeding Along with Quick Notes
Smarten Things Up
Chapter 19: Using Utilities
Use the Calculator App
Record Voice Memos
Measure Distances
Find a Missing Apple Device
Get the Latest Weather Updates and Alerts
Translate Words and Phrases
Manage Passwords and Other Stuff
Chapter 20: Troubleshooting and Maintaining Your iPad
Keep the iPad Screen Clean
Protect Your Gadget with a Case
Extend Your iPad’s Battery Life
What to Do with a Nonresponsive iPad
Update the iPadOS Software
Restore the Sound
Get Support
Back Up to iCloud
Index
About the Author
Connect with Dummies
End User License Agreement
Chapter 2
TABLE 2-1 Common Status Bar Icons
Chapter 4
TABLE 4-1 VoiceOver Gestures
TABLE 4-2 AssistiveTouch Controls
Chapter 1
FIGURE 1-1
FIGURE 1-2
FIGURE 1-3
FIGURE 1-4
FIGURE 1-5
Chapter 2
FIGURE 2-1
FIGURE 2-2
FIGURE 2-3
FIGURE 2-4
FIGURE 2-5
FIGURE 2-6
FIGURE 2-7
FIGURE 2-8
FIGURE 2-9
FIGURE 2-10
FIGURE 2-11
FIGURE 2-12
FIGURE 2-13
FIGURE 2-14
FIGURE 2-15
FIGURE 2-16
FIGURE 2-17
FIGURE 2-18
FIGURE 2-19
FIGURE 2-20
FIGURE 2-21
FIGURE 2-22
FIGURE 2-23
FIGURE 2-24
FIGURE 2-25
Chapter 3
FIGURE 3-1
FIGURE 3-2
FIGURE 3-3
FIGURE 3-4
FIGURE 3-5
FIGURE 3-6
FIGURE 3-7
Chapter 4
FIGURE 4-1
FIGURE 4-2
FIGURE 4-3
FIGURE 4-4
FIGURE 4-5
FIGURE 4-6
FIGURE 4-7
FIGURE 4-8
FIGURE 4-9
FIGURE 4-10
FIGURE 4-11
FIGURE 4-12
FIGURE 4-13
FIGURE 4-14
FIGURE 4-15
FIGURE 4-16
FIGURE 4-17
FIGURE 4-18
FIGURE 4-19
FIGURE 4-20
Chapter 5
FIGURE 5-1
FIGURE 5-2
FIGURE 5-3
FIGURE 5-4
FIGURE 5-5
FIGURE 5-6
FIGURE 5-7
FIGURE 5-8
FIGURE 5-9
FIGURE 5-10
Chapter 6
FIGURE 6-1
FIGURE 6-2
FIGURE 6-3
FIGURE 6-4
FIGURE 6-5
FIGURE 6-6
FIGURE 6-7
FIGURE 6-8
FIGURE 6-9
FIGURE 6-10
Chapter 7
FIGURE 7-1
FIGURE 7-2
FIGURE 7-3
FIGURE 7-4
FIGURE 7-5
FIGURE 7-6
FIGURE 7-7
FIGURE 7-8
FIGURE 7-9
FIGURE 7-10
FIGURE 7-11
FIGURE 7-12
FIGURE 7-13
Chapter 8
FIGURE 8-1
FIGURE 8-2
FIGURE 8-3
FIGURE 8-4
FIGURE 8-5
FIGURE 8-6
FIGURE 8-7
FIGURE 8-8
FIGURE 8-9
FIGURE 8-10
FIGURE 8-11
FIGURE 8-12
FIGURE 8-13
FIGURE 8-14
FIGURE 8-15
FIGURE 8-16
FIGURE 8-17
Chapter 9
FIGURE 9-1
FIGURE 9-2
FIGURE 9-3
FIGURE 9-4
FIGURE 9-5
FIGURE 9-6
FIGURE 9-7
FIGURE 9-8
FIGURE 9-9
FIGURE 9-10
FIGURE 9-11
FIGURE 9-12
FIGURE 9-13
FIGURE 9-14
FIGURE 9-15
FIGURE 9-16
FIGURE 9-17
Chapter 10
FIGURE 10-1
FIGURE 10-2
FIGURE 10-3
FIGURE 10-4
FIGURE 10-5
FIGURE 10-6
FIGURE 10-7
FIGURE 10-8
FIGURE 10-9
FIGURE 10-10
FIGURE 10-11
FIGURE 10-12
FIGURE 10-13
FIGURE 10-14
FIGURE 10-15
FIGURE 10-16
FIGURE 10-17
FIGURE 10-18
FIGURE 10-19
FIGURE 10-20
FIGURE 10-21
Chapter 11
FIGURE 11-1
FIGURE 11-2
FIGURE 11-3
FIGURE 11-4
FIGURE 11-5
Chapter 12
FIGURE 12-1
FIGURE 12-2
FIGURE 12-3
FIGURE 12-4
FIGURE 12-5
FIGURE 12-6
FIGURE 12-7
FIGURE 12-8
FIGURE 12-9
FIGURE 12-10
FIGURE 12-11
Chapter 13
FIGURE 13-1
FIGURE 13-2
FIGURE 13-3
FIGURE 13-4
FIGURE 13-5
FIGURE 13-6
FIGURE 13-7
FIGURE 13-8
FIGURE 13-9
FIGURE 13-10
FIGURE 13-11
FIGURE 13-12
FIGURE 13-13
FIGURE 13-14
FIGURE 13-15
FIGURE 13-16
Chapter 14
FIGURE 14-1
FIGURE 14-2
FIGURE 14-3
FIGURE 14-4
FIGURE 14-5
FIGURE 14-6
FIGURE 14-7
FIGURE 14-8
FIGURE 14-9
Chapter 15
FIGURE 15-1
FIGURE 15-2
FIGURE 15-3
FIGURE 15-4
FIGURE 15-5
FIGURE 15-6
FIGURE 15-7
FIGURE 15-8
FIGURE 15-9
Chapter 16
FIGURE 16-1
FIGURE 16-2
FIGURE 16-3
FIGURE 16-4
FIGURE 16-5
FIGURE 16-6
FIGURE 16-7
FIGURE 16-8
FIGURE 16-9
FIGURE 16-10
FIGURE 16-11
FIGURE 16-12
FIGURE 16-13
FIGURE 16-14
FIGURE 16-15
FIGURE 16-16
FIGURE 16-17
Chapter 17
FIGURE 17-1
FIGURE 17-2
FIGURE 17-3
FIGURE 17-4
FIGURE 17-5
FIGURE 17-6
FIGURE 17-7
FIGURE 17-8
FIGURE 17-9
FIGURE 17-10
FIGURE 17-11
FIGURE 17-12
FIGURE 17-13
FIGURE 17-14
FIGURE 17-15
FIGURE 17-16
FIGURE 17-17
Chapter 18
FIGURE 18-1
FIGURE 18-2
FIGURE 18-3
FIGURE 18-4
FIGURE 18-5
FIGURE 18-6
FIGURE 18-7
FIGURE 18-8
FIGURE 18-9
FIGURE 18-10
FIGURE 18-11
FIGURE 18-12
FIGURE 18-13
FIGURE 18-14
FIGURE 18-15
Chapter 19
FIGURE 19-1
FIGURE 19-2
FIGURE 19-3
FIGURE 19-4
FIGURE 19-5
FIGURE 19-6
FIGURE 19-7
FIGURE 19-8
FIGURE 19-9
FIGURE 19-10
FIGURE 19-11
FIGURE 19-12
FIGURE 19-13
FIGURE 19-14
FIGURE 19-15
FIGURE 19-16
FIGURE 19-17
FIGURE 19-18
Chapter 20
FIGURE 20-1
FIGURE 20-2
FIGURE 20-3
FIGURE 20-4
Cover
Table of Contents
Title Page
Copyright
Begin Reading
Index
About the Author
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iPad® For Seniors For Dummies®, 2025–2026 Edition
Published by: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774, www.wiley.com
Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies.
Media and software compilation copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies.
Published simultaneously in Canada
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning or otherwise, except as permitted under Sections 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Requests to the Publisher for permission should be addressed to the Permissions Department, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030, (201) 748-6011, fax (201) 748-6008, or online at http://www.wiley.com/go/permissions.
Trademarks: Wiley, For Dummies, the Dummies Man logo, Dummies.com, Making Everything Easier, and related trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and may not be used without written permission. iPad is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. is not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book. iPad® For Seniors For Dummies®, 2025-2026 Edition is an independent publication and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Apple Inc.
LIMIT OF LIABILITY/DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY: THE PUBLISHER AND THE AUTHOR MAKE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE CONTENTS OF THIS WORK AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO WARRANTY MAY BE CREATED OR EXTENDED BY SALES OR PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS. THE ADVICE AND STRATEGIES CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR EVERY SITUATION. THIS WORK IS SOLD WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE PUBLISHER IS NOT ENGAGED IN RENDERING LEGAL, ACCOUNTING, OR OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICES. IF PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE IS REQUIRED, THE SERVICES OF A COMPETENT PROFESSIONAL PERSON SHOULD BE SOUGHT. NEITHER THE PUBLISHER NOR THE AUTHOR SHALL BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES ARISING HEREFROM. THE FACT THAT AN ORGANIZATION OR WEBSITE IS REFERRED TO IN THIS WORK AS A CITATION AND/OR A POTENTIAL SOURCE OF FURTHER INFORMATION DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE AUTHOR OR THE PUBLISHER ENDORSES THE INFORMATION THE ORGANIZATION OR WEBSITE MAY PROVIDE OR RECOMMENDATIONS IT MAY MAKE. FURTHER, READERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT INTERNET WEBSITES LISTED IN THIS WORK MAY HAVE CHANGED OR DISAPPEARED BETWEEN WHEN THIS WORK WAS WRITTEN AND WHEN IT IS READ.
For general information on our other products and services, please contact our Customer Care Department within the U.S. at 877-762-2974, outside the U.S. at 317-572-3993, or fax 317-572-4002. For technical support, please visit https://hub.wiley.com/community/support/dummies.
Wiley publishes in a variety of print and electronic formats and by print-on-demand. Some material included with standard print versions of this book may not be included in e-books or in print-on-demand. If this book refers to media that is not included in the version you purchased, you may download this material at http://booksupport.wiley.com. For more information about Wiley products, visit www.wiley.com.
Library of Congress Control Number: 2025930867
ISBN 978-1-394-31340-2 (pbk); ISBN 978-1-394-31342-6 (ebk); ISBN 978-1-394-31341-9 (ebk)
Because you bought this book (or are thinking about buying it), you’ve probably already made the decision to buy an iPad. The iPad is designed to be easy to use, but you can still spend hours exploring the preinstalled apps, configuring settings, getting help from Apple Intelligence, and finding out how to sync the device to your computer or through iCloud. I’ve invested those hours so that you don’t have to — and I’ve added advice and tips for getting the most from your iPad.
This book helps you get going with your iPad quickly and painlessly so that you can move directly to the fun part.
If you're a mature person who is relatively new to using a tablet, or you want to update to iPadOS 18 and learn about all the new features of that version, you need this book. In iPad For Seniors For Dummies, you discover the basics of buying an iPad, working with its preinstalled apps, getting on the internet, and using social media.
This book uses a few conventions to assist you:
Bold:
I use bold type to make figure references stand out in the text.
Italics:
I use italics for emphasis and for placeholder text that substitutes for what you might be seeing onscreen, such as
Price
when the actual price is what you would be seeing.
Command sequences:
When you need to follow a series of actions, you might see it presented like this: Tap Settings ⇒ General ⇒ Date & Time. That means to first tap the Settings icon, and then tap General on the screen that appears, and then tap the Date & Time option.
URLs:
Web addresses appear in monofont type in the printed book and as clickable links in the e-book, like this:
www.dummies.com
.
The Tip icon in the margin of a page alerts you to brief pieces of advice to help you to take a skill further, provide an alternative way of doing something, or, occasionally, to be aware of a problem an action might cause.
This book uses nontechnical language, like all Dummies books, as it guides you through the basic steps of working with your iPad. To make the content of this book easily accessible, it’s organized into sets of tasks in the following parts:
Part 1
:
Getting to Know Your iPad:
The first chapter in this part guides you through buying an iPad, in case you don’t have one yet, as well as any accessories you might need. Also in this part, you learn what buttons to push and screen elements to tap, and what movements to make to turn on and use your iPad effectively. If you need to update your iPad's operating system to the latest version, you can find out about that and more in this part.
Part 2
:
Beginning to Use Your iPad:
This part begins by showing you how to enable accessibility features that may help you use your iPad more easily. You then learn more about Apple’s virtual assistant, Siri, and how to manage apps and contacts and use communication tools such as FaceTime, Messages, and social media apps. Finally, I give you a good start on surfing the web and sending and receiving email.
Part 3
:
Enjoying Media:
Your iPad will quickly become indispensable for all things media related. From reading books to watching movies and television shows to listening to your favorite tunes and podcasts, this part shows you the ropes for acquiring and enjoying new content. You also find out how to take stunning pictures and videos using your iPad’s built-in cameras.
Part 4
:
Living with Your iPad:
Finally, this part of the book helps you to stay on top of your busy life by taking notes and by setting calendar events, appointments, and reminders of important items on your to-do lists. You also explore several helpful utilities that come with iPadOS 18 and learn how to troubleshoot and maintain your iPad.
This book assumes that you are a mature iPad user who wants to get straight to the basics of using an iPad. It assumes also that you may not be familiar with using a tablet, or that you are updating to iPadOS 18 and want to discover all the new features that come with that update. In writing this book as a quinquagenarian myself, I’ve tried to consider the types of activities that might interest someone who is 50 years old or older.
Like every Dummies book, this one comes with a cheat sheet that brings together some of the most commonly needed information for people learning to use, in this case, the iPad. To get the cheat sheet, head to www.dummies.com and enter iPad For Seniors For Dummies Cheat Sheet in the Search box.
You can work through this book from beginning to end or simply open a chapter to solve a problem or acquire a specific new skill whenever you need it. The steps in every task quickly get you to where you want to go without a lot of technical explanation.
At the time I wrote this book, all the information it contained was accurate for the 13-inch iPad Pro (M4), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (third through sixth generations), 11-inch iPad Pro (first through fifth generations), iPad (seventh through tenth generations), 13-inch iPad Air (M2), iPad Air (third through sixth generations), iPad mini (fifth and sixth generations), version 18 of iPadOS (the operating system used by the iPad), and version 12.8 (for Macs) or 12.12 (for PCs) or later of iTunes. Apple may introduce new iPad models and new versions of iOS and iTunes between book editions. If you’ve bought a new iPad and found that its hardware, user interface, or the version of iTunes on your computer looks a little different, be sure to check out what Apple has to say at www.apple.com/ipad. You’ll no doubt find updates there on the company’s latest releases.
Part 1
IN THIS PART …
Choosing and purchasing your iPad
Navigating the Home screen, discovering preinstalled apps, and customizing your experience
Updating and synchronizing your iPad and understanding iCloud
Chapter 1
IN THIS CHAPTER
Discover what’s new in iPads and iPadOS 18
Choose the right iPad for you
Understand what you need to use your iPad
Explore what’s in the box
Take a look at the gadget
You’ve read about it. You’ve seen the lines at Apple Stores on the day a new version of the iPad is released. You’re so intrigued that you’ve decided to get your own iPad. Perhaps you’re not new to tablet computers but are ready to make the switch to the ultimate in such devices. With your iPad, you can have fun with apps, such as games and exercise trackers; explore the online world; read e-books, magazines, and other periodicals; take and organize photos and videos; listen to music and watch movies; and a lot more.
Trust me: You’ve made a good decision, because the iPad redefines the tablet computing experience in an exciting way. It’s also a perfect fit for seniors.
In this chapter, you learn about the advantages of the iPad, as well as where to buy this little gem and associated data plans from providers for iPads that support cellular data. After you have one in your hands, I help you explore what’s in the box and get an overview of the little buttons and slots you’ll encounter. Luckily, the iPad has very few of them.
Apple’s iPad gets its features from a combination of hardware and its software operating system, which is called iPadOS (short for iPad operating system). The most current version of the operating system is iPadOS 18. It’s helpful to understand which new features the latest iPad models and iPadOS 18 bring to the table (all of which are covered in more detail in this book).
The iPad is currently available in a variety of sizes and configurations, depending on the version of iPad:
iPad:
The tenth-generation model takes the iPad up a notch with a touchscreen that measures 10.9 inches diagonally and boasts a fast 64-bit desktop-class A14 Bionic processor.
iPad Air:
The sixth-generation iPad Air sports a powerful M2 processor and comes in two touchscreen sizes, one measuring 11 inches diagonally and the other at 13 inches diagonally.
iPad mini:
The iPad mini 7’s touchscreen measures 8.3 inches diagonally. This iPad uses an A17 Pro processor to do the behind-the-scenes work.
iPad Pro:
The two seventh-generation iPad Pro models are the fastest of the bunch. One's touchscreen measures 11 inches diagonally, and the other's is 13 inches; they both come with blazing-fast M4 processors, which are the same processors used in many of Apple’s newest Mac desktop and laptop computers.
Dimensions of devices are typically shown in the units of measurement commonly used in a region. This means, for example, that the basic tenth-generation iPad is shown on Apple’s U.S. site as being 9.79 inches (248.6 mm) high and 7.07 inches (179.5 mm) wide. In metric-system countries, both dimensions are given, but the order is reversed. When it comes to screen sizes, however, the dimensions are given in inches.
In addition to the features of previous iPads, the latest iPad models offer the following:
Ultra Retina XDR and Liquid Retina displays:
In addition to screen size, screen resolution has evolved so that Apple’s Ultra Retina XDR and Liquid Retina displays, both of which support very high-resolution graphics, now appear across the line. The name derives from the concept that individual pixels on the screen are so small that they can’t be distinguished at normal viewing distance.
Apple Pencil:
Originally designed exclusively for use with iPad Pro models, the Apple Pencil now works with all the latest iPad models. (Be sure to check which version of Apple Pencil will work with your iPad by visiting
www.apple.com/apple-pencil
.) Apple Pencil lets you draw and write on the screen with a familiar pencil-style tool rather than with your finger. The Apple Pencil contains a battery and sophisticated processing powers that make the experience of using it very much like (and sometimes better than) a traditional pencil. Third-party pencils and drawing tools exist, but Apple’s integration of Apple Pencil is remarkably smooth; the product has taken off quickly among graphic artists, illustrators, and designers. As other people have discovered its usability for marking up documents, it is becoming more and more common in business environments.
Neural Engine:
The Neural Engine is a component of the processor in every iPad that focuses on handling specialized tasks related to artificial intelligence, image and speech processing, and more cool things.
Touch ID:
This security feature is included on several iPad models. Sensors in the Home button (ninth-generation iPad) or top button (iPad Air, iPad mini, and tenth-generation iPad) allow you to train the iPad to recognize your fingerprint and grant you access with a finger press. Touch ID also allows you to use the Apple Pay feature to buy items without having to enter your payment information every time.
Facial recognition:
Touch ID is replaced with Face ID on certain iPad models. Using Face ID and the front-facing camera, your iPad unlocks when it recognizes your face. It can be used also for purchases and other tasks.
Barometric sensor:
On all iPad models, this sensor makes it possible for your iPad to sense air pressure around you. This feature is especially cool when you’re hiking a mountain, where the weather may change as you climb. Perhaps more to the point, the changes in barometric pressure can be sensed on a smaller scale so that elevation can be measured as you move normally.
Smart Connector for Smart Keyboard:
In addition to the onscreen keyboard, you can use a Smart Connector to hook up a Smart Keyboard, an external keyboard that makes getting complex work done much easier. Smart Connector is supported for all iPad models, with the exception of iPad mini.
Live photos:
Using the 3D Touch feature, you can press a photo on the screen to make it play like a short video. The Camera app captures 1.5 seconds on either side of the moment when you capture the photo, so anything moving in the image you photographed, such as water flowing in a stream, seems to move when you press and hold the still photo.
The iPadOS 18 update to the operating system adds many features, including (but definitely not limited to) the following:
Apple Intelligence:
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s spin on generative artificial intelligence. This gamechanger includes a greater understanding of personal context for Siri, which will be able to better understand and interact intelligently when you ask something like, “When is my granddaughter’s plane landing?” Apple Intelligence can assist with writing just about anything and includes built-in access to the latest incarnation of ChatGPT (a ChatGPT account is not required!). Information you request will never leave the comfort of your iPad and Apple’s servers without your explicit permission. Some Apple Intelligence features are available now but more will be released in future updates of iPadOS. Apple Intelligence is available only for iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd and 4th generations) and 12.9-inch (5th and 6th generations), iPad Air (5th generation), or newer. For much more information than I can squeeze in here, please visit
www.apple.com/apple-intelligence
.
Notes:
This gem of an app is getting better all the time, with new features such as live audio transcription and Smart Script. With live audio transcription, you can record audio in a note and have Notes generate a transcription on the fly! Smart Script re-creates your own handwriting style from your notes when you jot them down using an Apple Pencil (or even your finger), smoothing and straightening the text.
Customization:
You can customize your iPad more than ever before. Move apps and widgets anywhere you want on the Home screen pages. Lock and hide apps such as financial or medical apps to prevent other people from accessing them. Use custom colors for your app icons and text. Even Control Center has been given a big upgrade.
Photos:
The Photos app has been heavily redesigned, making it easier for you to find photos based on a range of topics. A carousel helps you browse your photos and videos with ease.
Built-in apps have been updated:
iPadOS 18 provides performance enhancements and interface upgrades for all the apps that come preinstalled with it, bringing many into the realm of their desktop computer counterparts.
Don’t need all the built-in apps? You can remove them from your Home screen. (Note that built-in apps take up very little of your iPad’s storage space.) When you remove a built-in app from your Home screen, you aren't deleting it — you’re hiding it. And if you change your mind, you can easily add them back to your Home screen by searching for them in the App Store and tapping the Get button.
These are but a very few of the improvements made to the latest version of iPadOS. I highly suggest visiting www.apple.com/ipados to find out more.
The most obvious differences among iPad models (the current 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models are shown in Figure1-1) are their size and weight, with the Pro being biggest, followed by iPad Air, then iPad, and finally the smallest, iPad mini. All models come in a variety of colors to suit everyone’s taste.
Photo courtesy of Apple Inc.
FIGURE 1-1
All models come either with Wi-Fi only, so you access a Wi-Fi network for internet access, or with Wi-Fi + Cellular for connecting to the internet through Wi-Fi or a cellular network (as your cellphone does). The iPad models also differ in available memory and price based on that memory (prices are accurate as of this writing and are subject to change):
iPad Pro 11-inch:
Wi-Fi models come in 256GB for $999, 512GB for $1,199, 1TB for $1,599, and 2TB for $1,999; Wi-Fi + Cellular models of each memory configuration cost $200 more than their Wi-Fi–only counterparts.
iPad Pro 13-inch:
Wi-Fi models come in 256GB for $1299, 512GB for $1,499, 1TB for $1,899, and 2TB for $2,299; Wi-Fi + Cellular models of each memory configuration cost $200 more than their Wi-Fi–only counterparts.
iPad Air 11-inch:
Wi-Fi models come in 128GB for $599, 256GB for $699, 512GB for $899, and 1TB for $1,099; Wi-Fi + Cellular models of each memory configuration cost $150 more than their Wi-Fi-only counterparts.
iPad Air 13-inch:
Wi-Fi models come in 128GB for $799, 256GB for $899, 512GB for $1,099, and 1TB for $1,299; Wi-Fi + Cellular models of each memory configuration cost $150 more than their Wi-Fi-only counterparts.
iPad (tenth generation):
Wi-Fi models come in 64GB for $349 and 256GB for $499; Wi-Fi + Cellular models of each memory configuration cost $150 more than their Wi-Fi-only counterparts.
iPad mini:
The Wi-Fi model comes in 128GB for $499, 256GB for $599, and 512GB for $799; Wi-Fi + Cellular models of each memory configuration cost $150 more than their Wi-Fi-only counterparts.
iPad models vary in screen quality and resolution, camera quality, and so on. Logically, the bigger the iPad, the bigger the price and (usually) the higher the quality.
Storage is a measure of how much information — for example, movies, photos, and software applications (apps) — you can store on a computing device. Storage can also affect your iPad’s performance when handling such tasks as streaming favorite TV shows from the web or downloading music.
Streaming refers to playing video or music content from the web (or from other devices) rather than playing a file stored on your iPad. You can enjoy a lot of material online without ever downloading its full content to your iPad — and given that some iPad models have relatively small amounts of storage, streaming is a good idea. See Chapters 11, 13, and 15 for more about getting your music and movies online.
Your storage options with the various iPad models range from 64 gigabytes (GB) to 2 terabytes (TB), which is equivalent to 2,000GB. You must choose the right amount of storage because you can’t open the unit and add more as you typically can with a desktop computer. However, Apple has thoughtfully provided iCloud, a service you can use to store content on the internet. (You can read more about iCloud in Chapter 3.)
How much storage is enough for your iPad? Here’s a guideline:
If you regularly work with large media files, such as movies or TV shows, you might need 512GB or higher. For example, if you shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second, that will take roughly 1GB of storage space for every two-and-a-half minutes of footage. In light of this fact, at least 1TB of storage may be more appealing if you shoot a lot of video.
If you like lots of media, such as movies or TV shows, you may need at least 256GB or 512GB.
For most people who manage a reasonable number of photos, download some music, and watch heavy-duty media (such as movies) online, 128GB or 256GB is probably sufficient.
If you simply want to check email, browse the web, and write short notes to yourself, 64GB is likely plenty.
Do you know how big a gigabyte (GB) is? Consider this: Just about any computer you buy today comes with a minimum of 256GB of storage. Computers have to tackle larger tasks than iPads, so that number makes sense. The iPad, which uses a technology called flash storage for storing data, is meant (to a great extent) to help you experience online media and email; it doesn’t have to store much since it pulls lots of content from the internet. In the world of storage, 64GB for any kind of storage is puny if you keep lots of content (such as audio, video, and photos) on the device. As mentioned earlier, some iPad models are offering terabytes (TB) of storage; 1TB is equal to 1,000GB.
Although you can use your iPad on its own without any internet or Wi-Fi access and without a computer to pair it with, it's easier if you have internet access and a computer that you can (occasionally) use with your iPad.
You need to be able to connect to the internet to take advantage of most iPad features. If you have an Apple Account, you can have an iCloud account, Apple’s online storage service, to store and share content online, and you can use a computer to download photos, music, or applications from non-Apple online sources (such as stores, sharing sites, or your local library) and transfer them to your iPad through a process called syncing, which you learn about in Chapter 3. You can also use a computer or iCloud to register your iPad the first time you start it, although you can have the folks at the Apple Store handle registration for you if you have an Apple Store nearby. If you don’t have a store nearby, visit www.apple.com/shop/help for assistance.
You can set up your iPad without an internet connection and without going to an Apple Store: The best way to find out more information is to contact https://support.apple.com/ through an internet connection on another device or at a public library or internet cafe.
Can you use your iPad without owning a computer and just use public Wi-Fi hotspots to go online (or a cellular connection, if you have such a model)? Yes. To go online using a Wi-Fi–only iPad and to use many of its built-in features at home, however, you need to have a home Wi-Fi network available.
For syncing with a computer, Apple’s iPad User Guide recommends that you have
A Mac or PC with a USB 2.0 or 3.0 port and one of these operating systems:
macOS version 10.13 (High Sierra) or newer
Windows 10 or newer
iTunes 12.9 or newer on a Mac running macOS El Capitan (10.11.6) through macOS Mojave (10.14.6), Finder on Mac’s running macOS Catalina (10.15) and newer, and iTunes 12.12.10 or newer on a PC, available at
www.apple.com/itunes/download
or via the Microsoft Store
Internet access
An Apple Account
Apple has set up its iTunes software and the iCloud service to give you two ways to manage content for your iPad — including movies, music, or photos you’ve downloaded — and to specify how to sync your calendar and contact information.
There are a lot of tech terms to absorb here (iCloud, iTunes, syncing, and so on). Don’t worry: Chapters 2 and 3 cover these in more detail.
You use Wi-Fi to connect to a wireless network at home or at locations such as an internet cafe, a library, a grocery store, or any public transportation that offers Wi-Fi. This type of network uses short-range radio to connect to the internet; its range is reasonably limited, so if you leave home or walk out of the coffee shop, you can’t use it anymore. (These limitations may change, however, as towns install community-wide Wi-Fi networks.)
The cellular technologies allow an iPad to connect to the internet via a widespread cellular network. You use it in much the same way that you make calls from just about anywhere with your cellphone. A Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad costs more than the basic Wi-Fi–only model, but it also includes GPS (Global Positioning System) service, which pinpoints your location so that you can get more accurate location information and driving directions.
Also, to use your cellular network in the United States, you must pay a monthly fee. The good news is that no carrier requires a long-term contract, which you probably had to have when you bought your cellphone and its service plan. You can pay for a connection during the month you visit your grandkids or friends, for example, and get rid of it when you arrive home. Features, data allowance (which relates to accessing email or downloading items from the internet, for example), and prices vary by carrier and could change at any time, so visit each carrier’s website to see what it offers. Note that if you intend to stream videos (watch them on your iPad from the internet), you can eat through your data plan allowance quickly.
How do you choose? If you want to wander around the woods or town — or take long drives with your iPad continually connected to the internet to get step-by-step navigation info from the Maps app — get Wi-Fi + Cellular and pay the additional costs. Don’t bother with cellular if you’ll use your iPad mainly at home or via a Wi-Fi hotspot (a location where Wi-Fi access to the internet is available, such as a local coffee shop or bookstore). You can find lots of hotspots at libraries, restaurants, hotels, airports, and other locations.
If you have a Wi-Fi–only iPad, you can use the hotspot feature on a smartphone, which allows the iPad to use your phone’s cellular connection to go online if you have a data-use plan that supports hotspot use with your phone service carrier. Check out the features of your phone to turn on the hotspot feature.
At present, Apple and many other companies offer some accessories that you may want to check out when you purchase your iPad, including the following:
iPad cases and covers:
Your iPad isn’t cheap, and unlike a laptop computer, it has a constantly exposed screen that can be damaged if you drop or scratch it. Investing in a good iPad case or cover is a good idea if you intend to take your iPad out of your house.
Printers:
Various HP, Brother, Canon, and Epson printers support the wireless AirPrint feature. At this writing, prices range from $129 to $399, and discounts are often available. Be sure to check whether your current printer will work before going out to purchase a new one.
Smart Keyboards:
You can buy an attachable keyboard for certain iPad models, which will make working with productivity apps much easier. These keyboards connect to your iPad to provide power and transmit data between the devices. Also, the Magic Keyboard from Apple for iPad Pro includes a trackpad for easy navigation without using your finger on the screen.
Apple Pencil:
For $79 (Apple Pencil) or $129 (Apple Pencil Pro), you can buy the highly sophisticated stylus for use with the iPad. The Apple Pencil makes it easy to draw on your iPad screen or manage complex interactions more precisely.
Apple Digital AV Adapter:
To connect devices to output high-definition media, you can buy this adapter for about $40 and use it with an HDMI cable. More and more devices are using this technology, such as projectors and TVs. But remember that wireless connections such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are less expensive and can eliminate all those cables and cords. In some circumstances, a wired connection is faster and more reliable than wireless.