Hidden iPad Features You Should Start Using Today

Why is the iPad a smart purchase even if you already have an iPhone and a laptop? It is because of its multifunctionality and convenience. Entertainment, studying, and work — all those aspects are fully covered with the features offered by this device. It is also less heavy than carrying books or a laptop around. 

If you are already using an iPhone, getting comfortable with an iPad will not take much time or effort. The tablet’s iPadOS is based on iOS, so navigation and basic functionality will be familiar. However, it is modified to boost productivity and features. Some of them are highly useful, but are never discovered by many iPad users. 

Multitasking with Split View 

Thanks to the big screen size, an iPad makes it possible to run and view several apps simultaneously. Just use the Split View function. 

It is most useful when you need to take notes. For instance, you can research a topic for an essay on one half of the screen, and write down key points in the Notes app on the other half. Thus, you would not need to waste time jumping between two windows. 

How to Activate a Split View on iPad? 

Firstly, you would need to enable Apps in Windows. Go to Settings > Multitasking & Gestures > Apps on Windows. After that, whenever you need to use a Split View, you need to: 

1. Tap the three dots (multitasking button) at the top of the first app. 

1. Select the “Split View” to dock it. 

1. Open a second app from the Dock or App Library. 

1. Resize both apps with the center divider in the most convenient way.  

When you move a window from the top to the edge, you can move the app. To resize it, just drag any corner.  

More Efficient Work with the Stage Manager 

What if you need to work with three or even five apps at the same time? There is a Stage Manager for such cases. You can activate it by going to Settings > Multitasking & Gestures > Stage Manager. 

Once enabled, Stage Manager will appear on the left part of the screen. All your active apps will be listed there. Tap any app to bring it to the foreground. When you select another app, it will expand immediately and become an active window. 

Capture All with One Long Screenshot in PDF Format 

With long screenshots in PDF, capturing a lengthy document is done quickly and neatly. This is especially useful when you need to save an entire webpage, a long recipe, or a multi‑section article for offline reading. This function allows you to have one continuous, organized file that is easy to store and share.  

How to make a long screenshot on iPad: 

1. For an iPad version with a Home button, you need to press it together with the Top button. If you have an iPad with Face ID, the combination is: Top button + Volume button.  
2. When the screenshot is made, press the screenshot thumbnail in the bottom-left corner. Then, choose Full Page > Done. 

Seconds later, you can edit your screenshot (or crop it if necessary) and save it to your device as a photo or a PDF file. 

Quick Notes to Not Forget Anything 

The iPadOS developers ensured that you would not lose a quick thought coming to your mind while you are using your tablet. It is simply not possible, as you can write it down in seconds by using the Quick Notes app. Quick Notes work on top of any app and are automatically saved to Notes, where you can access them on all your Apple devices. 

There are two ways to create a quick note. The first one is from any app. You just need to open the Control Center and tap the Notes icon. If you have not done notes before, the icon might not be there. Then, add it by touching and holding an empty area in the Control Center and tapping the Notes icon. 

The second option is to have a quick note created with a swipe from the bottom-right or bottom-left corner of the screen. For it to work, this function should be activated in the settings. The path is as follows: Settings > Apps > Notes > Corner Gestures and choose a quick note creation.  

Split Keyboard for Faster Typing 

If you need to type a lot, having Split Keyword enabled is a lifesaver. You can see your keyboard divided into two parts and ragged to the corners, so you are able to hold your tablet in your arms and type with your thumbs.  

Please note that it is not available on all iPad models. You might also need some time to get used to it before your typing becomes truly efficient.  If you are interested in this function, then go to Settings> General > Keyboard to enable the Split Keyboard option. Then, each time you need it, just: 

1. Touch and hold the keyboard icon. 

1. Slide your finger to split. 

1. Lift your finger to activate it. 

To merge your keyboard, just touch and hold the keyboard. Then, slide your finger up to “Merge” or “Dock and Merge,” and release the finger.  

Convert Your iPad into a Monitor with Sidecar 

Sidecar is an efficient free feature that allows you to have a second monitor for your Mac. If you find working on both screens comfortable or the workspace provided with Split View is not enough, Sidecar is a perfect option. To make it work, ensure both devices have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff enabled, and are on the same Wi-Fi and Apple ID.  

Alternatively, you can use a USB cable for a wired connection. Given that you might like to connect your iPad to your MacBook to maintain longer battery life, the wired connection might be more convenient. 

Depending on the tasks that you need to perform, you can: 

• extend your Mac desktop to an iPad; 

• make your iPad mirror the Mac display.  

Touch Bar function is still available when Sidecar features are active (even if your Mac does not support Touch Bar). Thus, you will be able to tap with your fingers or use an Apple Pencil for that.  

Additionally, this function can convert your iPad into a graphics tablet. It is perfect for easier photo editing or drawing. You will need an Apple Pencil for that. 

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