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Apple’s new iPad is launching March 16. But according to the latest reports, Apples tablet has already sold out of its preorders, and those hoping to get their hands on the device on launch day will have little to no chance of it. Demand is so high for Apples new iPad that the company doesnt anticipate having a new supply available to customers for two to three weeks after its launch.
But for all those who will be lucky enough to get their hands on the new iPad at launch day, it might be a good time to provide a refresher on what they should do to ensure the device is ready to go as soon as its home. From the simple, like applying the Smart Cover, to the more complex, like setting up iTunes, there are a host of things that new iPad buyers must know before they break the device out of the box.
1. Get the Smart Cover on it
The new iPads Smart Cover is not just any old thing to protect its screen. The cover, which latches to the side of the device, can act as a stand, turns the device on when taken off and powers it off when placed on it. This might be the simplest piece of advice in this roundup, but be sure to place the Smart Cover on the new iPad. Protection and added functionality are worth having.
2. Set up your email
One of the first things to do after powering on the new iPad is set up email accounts. Since the new iPad is designed to be a replacement for the PC, getting all your email accounts onto the device is an important step. Thankfully, Apples tablet supports all kinds of email accounts, including those from Gmail, Microsoft and others. You can even get your Post Office Protocol (POP) and Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) accounts onto it.
3. Set an access password
One of the last things new iPad owners think about when booting up their tablet is password-protecting the device. Without a password, anyone can pick up the tablet, open the Smart Cover and see just about anything they want. Although a system-wide password isnt the only security issue to take into account, its arguably the biggest one.
4. Consider turning off location settings
Yes, todays tablets and smartphones come with location features that help you get more from location-based apps, but consider the privacy ramifications of that. Do you really want everyone to know where you are at every moment? And if you snap a picture with the new iPad and share it on Twitter, do you want your current location to be shared? At least consider turning off location settings in the new iPad to preserve your privacy.
Its Important to Be an Efficient iPad Owner
5. Set up iCloud
Apples iCloud service is arguably one of the more important launches it has made in years. And not having it running on all of the iOS-based devices you have would be a mistake. So dont waste time trying to do everything else you can do with the new iPad, and set up iCloud. Youll be happy you did once your music and apps start syncing.
6. Set up iTunes, too
If youre new to the Apple world or you simply want to be able to download music and videos, be sure to set up iTunes on the new iPad. Apple, of course, wont let you get much functionality out of the new iPad without inputting iTunes credentials, so itll become a near-necessity when you get the device up and running. But thats just fine; iTunes is a key component in getting the most out of the new purchase.
7. Download your favorite apps
Applications are central to the experience of using an iOS-based device. So if youre not currently using iCloud or youre new to the Apple world, digging into the Apple Store to find out what sort of apps are worth downloading should be one of your first tasks. Tip: download iWork if you plan on making the iPad a work device.
8. Hook it up to 4G LTE
Although not all of Apple’s new iPads are shipping with 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) capability, those who buy the versions with it shouldnt waste any time setting it up. Unfortunately, Apple wont let users switch between AT&T and Verizon at will. So depending on which version you purchased, sign up for the respective carriers service and head out to the mobile Web from your new iPad.
9. Pick up some accessories
Apple has been criticized for not offering a USB or Thunderbolt port in its iPads. That said, the device does support a host of accessories that connect via the Dock connector. So if you need a physical keyboard, consider buying one. And if you want a camera hook-up, you can get an accessory to help you with that. The new iPad isnt necessarily incapable of allowing you to extend its functionality with third-party hardware.
10. Get acquainted with the basics
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, be sure to get acquainted with the basics of iOS 5.1. If youre new to iOS, as many new iPad customers will be, try out the many touch gestures available. Also, consider opening different applications, trying out the voice dictation, and seeing how multitasking works. Doing all that should help you learn quite quickly what it takes to be an efficient iPad owner.