How to Set Up a New iPad from Scratch

Step by step

1. 2 min

   Power on and select language

   Press and hold the top button until the Apple logo appears. When the Hello screen appears, swipe up from the bottom. Select your language and country or region from the lists provided.

   Note: The initial setup language determines your keyboard layout and Siri's voice, but you can change these later in Settings.
2. 1 min

   Connect to Wi-Fi network

   Tap your Wi-Fi network name from the list of available networks. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted. Wait for the checkmark to appear next to your network name, confirming the connection.

   Note: If your network doesn't appear, tap 'Other' to manually enter the network name and password.
3. 2 min

   Set up Face ID or Touch ID

   Follow the on-screen prompts to scan your face (iPad Pro, iPad Air 4th gen and later) or place your finger on the Home button multiple times (older models). Position your face or finger as directed by the circular progress indicator until setup completes.

   Note: Set up an alternate appearance in Face ID settings later if you frequently wear glasses or masks.
4. 2 min

   Create or sign in with Apple ID

   Tap 'Sign in with your Apple ID' if you have one, or 'Don't have an Apple ID or forgot it?' to create a new account. Enter your Apple ID email and password, then complete two-factor authentication using another Apple device or your phone number.

   Note: Use the same Apple ID across all your Apple devices to sync data, purchases, and settings automatically.
5. 2 min

   Configure privacy and security settings

   Choose whether to share analytics with Apple, enable location services, and set up Siri. Review each privacy setting carefully and select your preferences. Enable 'Find My iPad' to locate your device if it's lost or stolen.

   Note: You can adjust these privacy settings anytime in Settings > Privacy & Security.
6. 5 min

   Restore from backup or set up as new

   Select 'Restore from iCloud Backup' to transfer data from another device, 'Restore from Mac or PC' to use iTunes/Finder backup, or 'Don't Transfer Apps & Data' for a fresh start. If restoring, select your most recent backup and wait for the download to complete.

   Note: Setting up as new gives you a clean slate but requires manually downloading apps and reconfiguring settings.
7. 3 min

   Complete Apple services setup

   Choose whether to enable iCloud+, Apple Pay, and Screen Time features. Set up automatic updates by tapping 'Install Updates Automatically'. Review the terms and conditions, then tap 'Agree' to finish setup.

   Note: Enable automatic updates to keep your iPad secure with the latest iOS features and security patches.
8. 3 min

   Customize Control Center and home screen

   Swipe down from the top-right corner to access Control Center. Go to Settings > Control Center to add or remove shortcuts. Organize your home screen by pressing and holding app icons to enter jiggle mode, then drag apps to create folders or rearrange layouts.

   Note: Add widgets to your home screen by pressing and holding empty space, then tapping the '+' button in the top-left corner.