Think you know your iPad inside and out? Think again. Apple’s iPadOS is packed with features that often go unnoticed — even by seasoned users. Whether you're using your iPad for work, entertainment, or creative projects, these hidden gems can take your experience to the next level.
Let’s dive into the lesser-known capabilities that make the iPad more than just a sleek screen.
1. Trackpad Mode with Keyboard
Typing something long? Hold down the spacebar on the on-screen keyboard and voilà — your keyboard turns into a trackpad. It’s a game-changer for editing text on the fly.
2. Quick Notes from Anywhere
Swipe diagonally from the bottom right corner of the screen, and a Quick Note appears instantly. Perfect for jotting down ideas without switching apps. (Requires iPadOS 15+)
3. Drag and Drop Between Apps
Multitasking just got smarter. Simply tap and hold an image, link, or file, and drag it into another app in Split View or Slide Over. It feels like desktop-level flexibility — in your hands.
4. Hidden App Library Search
Swipe left past your last home screen and you’ll enter the App Library. Use the search bar at the top to find any app instantly — no more hunting through folders.
5. Apple Pencil Scribble to Text
With an Apple Pencil, just write anywhere — even in Safari’s search bar — and your handwriting converts to text. No need to tap or switch modes.
6. Back Tap Shortcuts
Head to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap and assign actions to double- or triple-taps on the back of your iPad. Launch apps, open Control Center, take screenshots — all without touching the screen.
7. Picture-in-Picture (PiP) for Safari
You know PiP works for videos, but did you know it also works with Safari videos? Tap the PiP icon on compatible videos and multitask while still watching.
8. Low Power Mode on iPad
Introduced in iPadOS 15, Low Power Mode helps extend battery life — ideal when you're traveling or working on-the-go. Find it in Settings > Battery.
9. Custom Focus Modes
Go beyond Do Not Disturb. Create custom Focus modes for work, reading, gaming, or even sleep. Filter notifications and home screens based on your mindset.
10. Scan Documents from Files App
Need to digitize a document fast? Open the Files app > Tap the three dots > Scan Documents. Clean scans, automatic edge detection, and PDF export — all built-in.
The iPad is more powerful than most people realize — and that’s exactly why it pairs so well with a thoughtful, minimal accessory setup. While we at Venito Leather love a beautifully handcrafted case, we also love discovering what’s possible beyond the surface.
Whether you’re an iPad power user or just scratching the surface, keep exploring. There’s more than meets the eye.