Common Reasons Why your iPad May Slow Down

May 21, 2018

Common Reasons Why your iPad May Slow Down

Unlocking the Mysteries: Understanding the Common Reasons Why Your iPad May Slow Down**

The iPad, a versatile and powerful device, has become an integral part of our daily lives, seamlessly blending productivity, entertainment, and creativity. However, like any electronic device, iPads may experience slowdowns over time, leaving users frustrated and seeking answers. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the common reasons why your iPad may slow down, offering insights into both hardware and software aspects. Understanding these factors can empower users to take proactive steps in maintaining optimal iPad performance.

Ageing Hardware:

One of the primary reasons iPads may slow down is ageing hardware. As newer iPad models are released, equipped with more powerful processors, increased RAM, and enhanced graphics capabilities, older models may struggle to keep up with the demands of the latest apps and operating system updates. Over time, technological advancements can outpace the capabilities of ageing hardware, resulting in slower performance. If you're experiencing significant slowdowns and own an older iPad model, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a newer device with improved specifications.

Insufficient Storage Space:

An often overlooked but crucial factor affecting iPad performance is insufficient storage space. iPads, like all devices, require adequate free space to operate smoothly. When storage space is nearly full, the iPad may struggle to perform essential tasks, leading to noticeable slowdowns. Users should regularly check their iPad's storage capacity and delete unnecessary apps, photos, and files. Additionally, consider transferring media to iCloud or an external storage solution to free up space and ensure your iPad has room to operate efficiently.

Background App Activity:

Apps running in the background can contribute to iPad slowdowns, especially if multiple apps are active simultaneously. Some apps continue to run processes even when not actively in use, consuming system resources and impacting overall performance. Users can address this by regularly closing unused apps or enabling the iPad's background app refresh settings. Additionally, force-closing apps from the multitasking menu can help free up resources and alleviate performance issues.

Outdated Software:

Running outdated software is a common reason for iPad slowdowns. As Apple releases new iOS updates, these updates are optimised for the latest hardware and may not perform optimally on older iPad models. Ensuring your iPad is running the latest iOS version can enhance performance and security. Users should regularly check for updates in the Settings app and install the latest iOS version compatible with their iPad model. Keeping software up-to-date ensures access to new features and improvements while maintaining overall performance.

Overloaded Cache Files:

Cache files accumulate over time as users browse the internet, use apps, and interact with various services on their iPads. While cache files serve the purpose of speeding up certain processes, an excess of these files can lead to performance issues. Clearing cache files, particularly in web browsers and apps, can help alleviate slowdowns. Users can manually clear cache files in individual apps or explore third-party apps designed to manage and optimize storage, including the removal of unnecessary cache data.

Background Processes and Widgets:

Certain background processes and widgets can contribute to iPad slowdowns. Widgets, which provide at-a-glance information on the iPad's home screen, can consume system resources even when the iPad is not in use. Disabling or reducing the number of widgets and background processes can help improve overall performance. Users can customize their widget settings in the Today View and review app settings to limit background processes for specific apps, striking a balance between functionality and system efficiency.

Unoptimised Apps:

Apps that are not optimised for the specific iPad model or iOS version may contribute to performance issues. Developers regularly release updates to optimize their apps for the latest iOS features and hardware capabilities. If an app becomes outdated or experiences compatibility issues, it can result in slow performance or unexpected crashes. Users should regularly check for app updates in the App Store and consider removing apps that are no longer supported or causing performance issues.

Overworked CPU:

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of the iPad, handling various tasks and calculations. An overworked CPU, often caused by resource-intensive apps or processes, can lead to significant slowdowns. Users can identify resource-intensive apps by checking the iPad's Battery section in Settings, which provides insights into app activity and energy consumption. Closing or managing apps that consistently use a significant portion of the CPU can help prevent overall system slowdowns.

Background Location Services:

Apps that frequently access location services in the background can contribute to iPad slowdowns. Location tracking requires ongoing communication with GPS satellites and other services, consuming additional battery and system resources. Reviewing and adjusting location service settings for specific apps can help minimize background location tracking, reducing the strain on the iPad's resources and potentially improving performance.

Too Many Safari Tabs Open:

Safari, the default web browser on iPads, may contribute to slowdowns if users have numerous tabs open simultaneously. Each open tab consumes system resources, and an excessive number of tabs can strain the iPad's memory and processor. Closing unused tabs and utilizing features like Safari's Reading List to save pages for later can help optimize Safari's performance and contribute to a smoother browsing experience.

Background Downloads and Updates:

Automatic downloads and updates, including those for apps, iOS, and iCloud services, can occur in the background, impacting iPad performance. Users can manage automatic downloads in the App Store and iTunes & App Store settings, allowing them to choose when and how updates are installed. By scheduling downloads and updates during periods of low usage, users can minimize the impact on overall performance and maintain a responsive iPad experience.

Hardware Issues:

In some cases, hardware issues may be the underlying cause of iPad slowdowns. Ageing batteries, malfunctioning components, or other hardware-related issues can impact performance. Users experiencing persistent slowdowns, especially after addressing software-related factors, may consider seeking assistance from Apple Support or an authorized service provider to diagnose and address potential hardware issues.

Conclusion: Empowering iPad Users to Address Slowdowns

While the iPad is designed to provide a seamless and efficient user experience, slowdowns can occur due to a variety of factors. Understanding these common reasons for iPad slowdowns empowers users to take proactive steps in maintaining optimal performance. Regular maintenance, such as updating software, managing storage, and optimising app usage, can contribute to a smoother and more responsive iPad experience.

Users should approach iPad performance holistically, considering both hardware and software aspects. Whether it's addressing ageing hardware through an upgrade, optimising storage space, or managing background processes, taking a proactive stance can extend the lifespan of your iPad and ensure it continues to meet your needs effectively. By staying informed and implementing best practices, iPad users can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, enjoying the full capabilities of their devices for years to come.

Reasons Why Your iPad Might Slow Down

If your Apple iPad has started running painfully slowly, it may be because it needs some simple maintenance and not because it’s broken.

Use the following tips to improve your iPad’s efficiency and speed up its performance. Here are nine common reasons why your Apple iPad may be running slowly and how to fix them.

Does Apple throttle iPads?

I don't expect you to think that Apple might have throttled your iPad, which might have reduced its performance level. It is common knowledge that Apple has slowed down processor speeds on older iPhones before, so who’s to say that it hasn’t happened to older iPads before?

Apple has throttled the iPhone’s processing speed deliberately to prevent unexpected crashes that might cause the phones to slow down, but this might not be the case with a lagging iPad simply because Apple "dynamically manages performance" for only the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus.

Although Apple did breach their customer’s trust by hiding the truth about throttling older iPhones for a long time, it is safe to believe that they have learnt their lessons about transparency.

If your iPad tablet is still running slowly after making the changes suggested in this blog, there may be a more complicated underlying problem with your iPad.

1. You’ve not got the latest version of iOS.

iOS updates often contain performance tweaks and fixes, so it’s beneficial to make sure that you’re always running on the latest version.

To check if there’s a new update available,

Go to Settings -> General -> Software Update?

2. You’re very low on disc space.

If your iPad’s memory is very full, then it may begin to struggle to perform efficiently and slow down. Apps can take up a lot of memory, so having a little spring clean and deleting apps you no longer use can free up memory and speed up performance.

To check how much memory is available,

Go to Settings -> General -> Usage.

After deleting apps, don’t forget to restart your iPad to refresh its memory and see the difference the changes have made.

3. Apps are updating themselves in the background.

If your apps are set to auto-update, there is probably a lot of activity going on in the background that you’re not aware of that is slowing down your iPad. Switch off the auto-update feature and manually download updates for your favourite apps instead.

After freeing up some space or turning off some unused features on your iPad, especially on older iPads like the iPad mini or iPad Air 2, there should be a considerable increase in the phone’s speed. Then proceed to stop Background App Refresh. When the feature is activated under settings, the service runs a background check for updates and works away in the background. This means that if you use many apps actively, especially social networking apps like Instagram and Facebook, These sorts of apps are known to consume a lot of processing power in the background without the user having to click to open the app.

To switch off app auto-updates, go to:

Settings -> iTunes and App Store.

Now switch off the "Updates" toggle.

4. You’ve not been selective.

If you’ve got app notifications popping up every few minutes, chances are that they’re not all useful to you and they’re slowing your iPad down. Start by turning all notifications off, then go back through the list and only turn back on the ones that you need.

To turn notifications on and off, go to:

Settings—Notification Centre.

5. You don’t restart your iPad.

A simple phone restart will refresh your phone‘s memory, allowing it to start from the onset. Do this, especially after you have removed redundant apps from your iPad. To carry out this process, a power off slider will come up after holding down the Sleep/Wake button at the top for some seconds, and then you can swipe it to shut down your iPad.

6. The spotlight is turned on

Spotlight powers the search feature of your phone, making it easy and quick to locate virtually anything on your iPad. However, for Spotlight to function accurately, it has to index each item on your iPad; this can occasionally slow down the processor. To turn off Spotlight, follow the steps below.

Settings > General > Spotlight Search and set all the Search Results items to Off.

Disable Motion Reduction

Another action that might boost the speed of your device is to turn off some of the visual effects. You can enable reduce motion by tapping Settings > General > Accessibility > Reduce Motion and setting Reduce Motion to On.

8. Restore your iPad's factory settings

This should be the last resort for iPad users, especially if you have a software issue that you can’t seem to get the hang of. It is a good idea to restore factory settings and not backup, because restoring backups to the iPad will simply carry the previous issues along with them. To avoid this, reinstall your favourite apps on your iPad and configure them manually if need be.

9. And if your internet browser is running slow,

Install an ad blocker.

Clear the cache

Check your internet connection.

If none of the above solutions work for you, then the problem might originate from faulty iPad hardware. The ultimate solution will be to take the iPad to an Apple Store or phone repair specialist for servicing or to seek a replacement. In cases of a battery running down quickly, the processor might be giving off a signal.

Furthermore, your iPad might not be running as slowly as you think. This might just be a case of comparison between the performance of old and new devices. You cannot compare the performance of a new device you have just purchased to the one you have been using for a while. Several factors come into play.

Find out more about ImFixed’s iPad repair service in Bolton, Bury, Wigan, and Manchester or give us a call on 01204 520 520 for help getting your iPad tablet up and running again.

Common Reasons Why your iPad May Slow Down

FAQs:

1. Why does my iPad slow down over time, even though it initially performed well?

iPads may slow down over time due to a combination of factors. Ageing hardware, increased demands from newer software updates, and the accumulation of temporary files and cache can contribute to a decrease in performance. Additionally, as apps and websites become more sophisticated, they may place higher demands on the iPad's resources, impacting its speed and responsiveness.

2. How does insufficient storage space contribute to iPad slowdowns?

Insufficient storage space is a common reason for iPad slowdowns. When the storage is nearly full, the iPad may struggle to perform basic tasks, impacting overall speed. Limited storage can also hinder the device's ability to efficiently manage apps, store temporary files, and run system processes. Regularly managing and freeing up storage space by deleting unnecessary files and apps can help alleviate slowdowns.

3. Can background app activity cause my iPad to slow down, and how can I address this issue?

Yes, background app activity can contribute to iPad slowdowns. Apps running in the background continue to consume system resources, affecting overall performance. To address this issue, users should regularly close unused apps, disable unnecessary background processes, and adjust app settings to limit background activity. This ensures that the iPad's resources are efficiently allocated to the active tasks, minimising the impact on speed.

4. How does updating software impact iPad performance, and why is it essential to keep my iPad's operating system up-to-date?

Updating the iPad's software is essential for maintaining optimal performance. Software updates often include optimisations, bug fixes, and enhancements that are designed to improve overall efficiency and responsiveness. Ignoring software updates can lead to compatibility issues with newer apps and services, potentially causing slowdowns. Keeping the iPad's operating system up-to-date ensures that it can effectively handle the demands of the latest software and applications.

5. What role does the iPad's CPU play in its performance, and how can an overworked CPU contribute to slowdowns?

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is a critical component that handles various tasks on the iPad. An overworked CPU, caused by resource-intensive apps or processes, can lead to slowdowns. When the CPU is tasked with too many operations simultaneously, it may struggle to keep up with demand, resulting in decreased performance. Users can identify and manage resource-intensive apps by checking the iPad's Battery section in Settings, allowing for a smoother overall experience.