Apple’s tablet may look like a super-sized iPhone, but it has unique features even the most seasoned iOS veteran should learn. Here are the top hidden iPad features.
- Split Screen Multitasking: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the Dock, then drag an app to the left or right edge of the screen to activate Split View multitasking.
- Quick App Switching: To quickly switch between apps, swipe left or right along the bottom edge of the screen with four fingers.
- Screenshot Markup: After taking a screenshot by pressing the Home and Power buttons simultaneously, tap the screenshot preview that appears in the bottom left corner to enter markup mode where you can annotate the screenshot.
- Quick Access to Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to access Control Center, where you can toggle settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, brightness, and volume.
- Picture-in-Picture (PiP): Watch videos or make FaceTime calls in a floating window while using other apps. Simply tap the PiP icon in supported apps, or press the Home button while watching a video.
- Customize Widgets: Long-press on the home screen to enter jiggle mode, then tap the «+» button in the top left corner to add widgets for quick access to information from your favorite apps.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn keyboard shortcuts for iPad apps like Command + C for copy, Command + V for paste, Command + Z for undo, and Command + Shift + 3 for screenshot.
- Drag and Drop: You can easily drag and drop text, images, and files between apps by tapping and holding on the item until it lifts off, then dragging it to the desired location.
- Access Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (for iPads without a Home button) or swipe up from the bottom (for iPads with a Home button) to access the Control Center.
- Customize Widget Size: Choose from different widget sizes to display the right amount of information.
- QuickType Keyboard: Swipe down on the keys on the iPad’s virtual keyboard to enable QuickType, which allows you to input numbers and symbols without switching to the dedicated keyboard layout.
- Handwritten Notes: Use the Apple Pencil to take handwritten notes in apps like Notes or Pages. Simply tap the screen with the Apple Pencil to start writing.
- Dark Mode: Enable Dark Mode by going to Settings > Display & Brightness > Appearance and selecting Dark. This reduces eye strain, especially in low-light environments.
- Calculator and Conversions: Type in simple math equations or unit conversions directly into Spotlight for instant results.
- Markup: Use the Apple Pencil to mark up screenshots, PDFs, and photos. Just take a screenshot, and tap the thumbnail that appears in the corner to start annotating.
These tricks should help you get more out of your iPad experience!
The iPad is a powerful and versatile device that can do much more than you might realize. Whether you’re a new iPad owner or a seasoned user, there are always new tips and tricks to discover that can enhance your productivity, creativity, and overall experience.