Apple’s iPad made its debut in 2010. 37 more versions have hit the market since then. If you have upgraded to a new version but are still holding onto an old model, don’t throw it away. You can find new uses provided it is still in decent working condition.
Here are ‘x’ creative ways to give a new life to your old iPad.
Dual Monitor Set Up
Many people use two or more screens for better productivity, video collaboration, and easy shuffling between documents. You can reuse your iPad as a second monitor instead of buying a new one. The Sidecar feature allows you to connect an iPad to a Mac. A third-party app like Duet Display or Luna Display is suitable for Windows PC-iPad configuration. A USB cable or dongle can work for a gaming console.
Digital Picture Frame
A standalone digital picture frame can cost between $140 and $1500. You can save this cost by converting your iPad into a digital picture frame. It can display a slideshow of photos and videos. Download Fotoo or LiveFrame apps to stream the slideshow.
E-Reader
This one is for all bookworms. Download Kindle, Goodreads, Libby, Nook, or Apple Books app on the iPad. Put it on airplane mode or turn off all notifications. Your new e-reader is ready without spending any dime except for a reading service subscription or book price.
Edutainment for Kids
According to a survey, four out of five households with children own tablets to play, learn, and connect. While several kid-friendly tablets are available nowadays, your old iPad can do just fine. You can download educational content and allow your kids to access them during their screen time. You can also set parental controls to create a safe viewing experience for your kids.
Smart Home Hub
69.91 million Americans were smart home users in 2024 and the number is expected to reach 103.15 million by 2028. Your iPad can come in handy as a smart home hub if you plan to use home automation technology. A smart home hub connects and controls all home automation devices. You can operate light bulbs, doorbells, thermostats, refrigerators, and other gadgets from your iPad.
Digital Planner and Journal
Ditch the paper diaries by converting your old iPad into a digital notebook. You will not only save physical space but also easily access it on the go. Use tools such as Goodnotes, Procreate, Notability, Trello, Noteshelf, Moodnotes, and Day One for planning and journaling.
Music Stream
Music lovers can stack up their old iPads to stream their favorite songs. Connect the device to a music app, AirPlay, sound system, or dock.
Kitchen Assistant
Put your old iPad on a hands-free stand or magnetic wall mount. You can conveniently use it to watch recipes, read a book, play music, or record tutorials while cooking. You can also connect it to a Bluetooth-enabled smart kitchen scale to display the weight of the ingredient or food.
Travel Navigation
When you are on a road trip or doing sightseeing, you can use the old iPad as a travel buddy. Browse through the maps or guides at your fingertips. It can also serve as an in-vehicle infotainment for back-seat passengers.
Bedside Clock
You can convert your former iPad into a bedtime clock. It can display the date, time, and weather of different time zones. You can even set alarms and reminders on it. Check for the Standby feature in the settings icon on your phone to use it as a clock. Alternatively, apps such as Alarm Clock HD, Atomic Clock, and Fliplock can also help.
Security Camera
A strong Wi-Fi network and a reliable security camera app on iPad can safeguard your home. Alfred Home Security and Athome Camera are recommended apps for this purpose.
Baby Monitor
There is no need to buy expensive monitor equipment to check on your baby. There is one condition, though. You must have two iOS devices. The Luna app available on the Apple Store can convert both devices into a baby monitor. It has audio and video streaming features to watch your baby’s activities live. It sends an instant alert when the baby wakes up.
Sell/Trade-In
The obvious option to repurpose your obsolete iPad is to sell it. Many local electronic stores and online marketplaces buy old devices or offer discounts for new purchases.
Apple offers Trade In service to upgrade your old Apple devices or get a credit towards a new product.
Charity
Donate your old iPad to charitable organizations, educational institutions, or anyone else in need.
