15 Ways to Make Your Old iPad Useful Again

According to AppleInsider, 67% of repeat iPad buyers retained their old iPads, compared to only 41% of iPhone buyers who kept or handed down their previous iPhones. 

So, if you have an old iPad lying around, you don’t have to let it gather dust. There are many fun and useful ways to give it a new life! 

Here’s how to make the most of your old iPad, so you can enjoy its features and keep it out of the drawer.

1. Turn It into a Digital Photo Frame

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Image Credit: ouh_desire/Deposit Photos

You can transform your old iPad into a stylish digital photo frame. Download apps that allow you to create slideshows of your favorite photos. Just set it up on a stand or lean it against a wall, and enjoy a rotating display of memories without needing to print anything out.

2. Use It as a Home Automation Hub

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Image Credit: prykhodov/Deposit Photos

If you have smart home devices, your old iPad can serve as a control center. Install apps for your smart lights, thermostat, and security cameras. You can place it in a common area, allowing easy access to control your home’s automation with just a few taps.

3. Create a Dedicated Recipe Book

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Image Credit: grinvalds/Deposit Photos

Turn your old iPad into a digital cookbook by loading it with your favorite recipes. You can use cooking apps or simply bookmark your go-to websites. Place it on your kitchen counter while you cook, so you can easily follow recipes without worrying about spilling ingredients on your main device.

4. Set Up a Gaming Station for Kids

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Image Credit: Goodluz/Deposit Photos

If you have children, your old iPad can become their personal gaming device. Load it with kid-friendly games and educational apps. This way, they can have a dedicated device for entertainment and learning, while you keep your newer gadgets free for your own use.

5. Use It for Streaming & Entertainment

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Image Credit: serezniy/Deposit Photos

Your old iPad can be a great tool for streaming movies, shows, or music. Load it with your favorite streaming apps and set it up in your living room, bedroom, or even the bathroom for some light entertainment.

This is especially handy when you want to keep your primary devices free for other tasks.

6. Create a Personalized Smart Mirror

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Image Credit: AllaSerebrina/Deposit Photos

You can turn your old iPad into a smart mirror by mounting it behind a two-way mirror. Use apps to display the time, weather, news, and calendar updates.

This setup can enhance your daily routine, providing you with useful information while you get ready in the morning.

7. Set Up a Reading Nook

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Image Credit: MAnuta/Deposit Photos

Transform your old iPad into an e-reader. Download your favorite reading apps or eBook services and fill it with novels, magazines, and articles you love.

You can create a cozy reading nook where you can enjoy your literature without needing to carry around physical books.

8. Use It for Video Calls

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Image Credit: BongkarnGraphic/Deposit Photos

Your old iPad can become a dedicated device for video calls with family and friends. Set it up in a comfortable spot and keep it charged for easy access. This way, you can stay connected without interrupting your work or personal device.

9. Turn It into a Learning Tool for Kids

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Image Credit: tomwang/Deposit Photos

Your old iPad can serve as an educational tool for children. Download interactive learning apps, educational games, and eBooks. You can create a fun learning environment that encourages curiosity and skill development without needing to invest in new devices.

10. Use It as a Music Control Center

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Image Credit: GaudiLab/Deposit Photos

Convert your old iPad into a music control center for your home. Install music streaming apps and connect it to your speakers via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. You can easily play, pause, and change tracks without needing to use your main devices, keeping your music experience seamless.

11. Create a Hi-Tech Cat Toy

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Image Credit: youloveben/Deposit Photos

You can turn your old iPad into an interactive toy for your cat. Download pet-friendly apps that feature moving objects and sounds designed to engage your furry friend. Set it up on the floor or a safe surface, and watch your cat enjoy their new tech plaything!

12. Use It as a Baby Monitor

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Image Credit: prykhodov/Deposit Photos

Transform your old iPad into a reliable baby monitor. Download a baby monitoring app that allows you to keep an eye on your little one from another room. You can set it up in the nursery and use your phone to monitor the feed, giving you peace of mind while you move around the house.

13. Make a Calendar & To-Do List Hub

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Image Credit: ra2studio/Deposit Photos

You can use your old iPad to create a centralized spot for your family’s calendar and to-do lists. Sync it with your favorite calendar app and share it with family members. This way, everyone can stay updated on appointments and tasks, promoting better organization at home.

14. Design a Custom Dashboard

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Image Credit: AntonioGuillemF/Deposit Photos

Transform your old iPad into a personalized dashboard for news, weather, and social media updates. Use widget apps to curate the information that matters most to you, and place it on your desk or a dedicated spot. This setup keeps you informed at a glance without distracting you from your main tasks.

15. Donate Your iPad

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Image Credit: MNStudio/Deposit Photos

Donating your old iPad is a great way to give it a second life while helping others. Many schools, charities, and community organizations welcome technology donations.

By donating, you provide someone with access to technology, which can be especially valuable for learning or staying connected. Plus, it feels good to know you’re making a positive impact.

By giving your old iPad a new purpose, you not only save money but also reduce waste. So, pick one or more of these ideas and start enjoying your old iPad in a whole new way!

Source:

  1. Apple Insider
Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.