iPad mini 4, version 15 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
Getting to Know Your iPad
IN THIS PART …
Starting out with your iPad
Navigating the Home screen
Updating and synchronizing your iPad
Discovering preinstalled apps
Understanding iCloud
Chapter 1
Buying Your iPad
IN THIS CHAPTER
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. Your iPad offers lots of fun apps, such as games and exercise trackers; allows you to explore the online world; lets you read e-books, magazines, and other periodicals; allows you to take and organize photos and videos; plays music and 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 an absolutely 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.
Discover the Newest iPads and iPadOS 15
Apple’s iPad gets its features from a combination of hardware and its software operating system (called iPadOS; the term is short for iPad operating system). As of this writing, the most current version of the operating system is iPadOS 15. It’s helpful to understand which features the newest iPad models and iPadOS 15 bring to the table (all of which are covered in more detail in this book).
The iPad is currently available in various sizes, depending on the version of iPad. Here are the five basic sizes, by iPad type:
iPad: The ninth-generation iPad features a touchscreen that measures 10.2 inches diagonally and sports a super-fast 64-bit desktop-class A13 Bionic processor.
iPad Air: The fourth-generation iPad Air employs a touchscreen measuring 10.9 inches diagonally and features a 64-bit A14 Bionic processor.
iPad mini: The iPad mini 6’s screen measures 8.3 inches diagonally and uses a 64-bit A13 Bionic processor to do the behind-the-scenes work.
iPad Pro: The two iPad Pro models are the fastest of the bunch. One measures 11 inches diagonally, and the other is 12.9 inches; they both come with blazing-fast M1 processors, which are the same processors used in many of Apple’s newest Mac desktop and laptop computers.
In addition to the features of previous iPads, the latest iPad models offer
Screen resolution: In addition to screen size, screen resolution has evolved so that Apple’s Retina 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 at normal viewing distance, they can’t be distinguished.
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) traditional pencils. 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 newer iPad models that have a Home button. Sensors in the Home button 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 iPad models that don’t have a Home button. Using Face ID and the front-facing camera, your iPad unlocks when it recognizes your face.
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 sensed and measured as you move normally.
More keyboard options: The iPad Pro has a full-size onscreen keyboard. Because the screen has more space, the top of the keyboard can contain extra commands for filling in passwords and using more advanced input techniques.
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.
Live photos: Using the 3D Touch feature, you can press a photo on the screen to make it play like