If you own an older model of iPad - perhaps an iPad 1, 2 or 3, or the iPad mini 1 - then the chances are that it isn't running as quickly as you'd like. Even though iOS is a modern operating system that requires minimal maintenance, it still gets full and slows down over time.
Sometimes even relatively new models feel sluggish compared to the way they soared when brand-new.
There are many different techniques for speeding up an old or slowed-down iPad, and here are some of the ones that have been found to be most effective.
1. The first trick is to have a good software clear-out. Remove any apps that you no longer use. Apps take up storage space, and freeing up space makes it easier for iOS to operate.
Note that we're talking about deleting the apps from the device entirely, not just closing them down (by double-tapping to open the multitasking bar, then swiping up on the app you want to close). That won't make any difference. The theory that closing down a few apps will free up memory and speed up an iOS device is a myth, and anybody who understands how iOS manages memory knows that it won't work.
But deleting apps that you no longer use has a notable effect on iOS. That one isn't a myth.
2. After you've got rid of the apps you don't need, it's time to slim down the apps you do want to keep, by getting rid of files inside them.
Click Settings > General > Storage & iCloud Usage. Now tap Manage Storage (under Storage, not iCloud) and look for items that are taking up lots of space. Podcasts, GarageBand and Movies are likely suspects. Tap an app to view its contents, and then swipe left across any item you don't want and tap Delete.
3. Once you've cleared out the iPad, you should restart it. The restart refreshes the memory and enables it to start from scratch.
Hold down the Sleep/Wake button until you see the Slide To Power Off control slide and power down your iPad, then press and hold the Sleep/Wake button again to wake it back up.
