IPad Pro without screen

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IPad Pro without screen

Hello All,

Does anyone know if an iPad Pro 12.9 2017 (2nd Gen) will work without a screen connected to the device?

This iPad works well other than an malfunctioning screen caused by a short in the screens circuitry. The reason the screen needs to be fully removed from the device is that it gets incredibly hot in a very specific spot and would be unsafe to operate with it connected.

My plan would be to operate the iPad through a external keyboard, mouse and display via lightning adapter out as a tv computer.

Why wouldn’t I just have a new screen put on I hear you ask? That is due to Apple charging the price of new iPad just to put a new screen on this particular model. Even after market no genuine screens cost ~£350 so it renders the iPad beyond economical repair, it becomes useless and requires a replacement. Well played Apple.

Anyone that knows if it’ll run with no attached screen, your help would be greatly appreciated, I’d like to keep this device serving some purpose!

Posted on Oct 28, 2022 8:54 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

LotusPilot

Community+ 2025

Level 10

301,658 points

Oct 28, 2022 9:09 AM in response to Byrney33

In short, your iPad is unlikely to work at all without its integral screen. At the very least, after restart, the only method of entering the iPad Passcode is via the touchscreen. Without a screen, you’ll not be able to unlock the iPad. If used without a configured Passcode, the majority of advanced features and services, reliant upon the iPad Keychain, will not be available.

The iPad passcode is one element of system security, in that it unlocks the iPad Secure Enclave (the iPad security chip) within which the system encryption keys are stored. No passcode = no keychain = no encryption services.

As for your iPad screen, it is not a simple component - but includes multiple hardware elements, including some that are unique to modern iPads.

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Answer 2

Oct 28, 2022 9:24 AM in response to Byrney33

I wish you the best of luck - although I fear you will accomplish very little other than to render the device (or rather the remaining pile of components) unsuitable for responsible or optimal recycling.

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Answer 3

Byrney33 Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 28, 2022 9:18 AM in response to LotusPilot

Hi thanks for your reply,

I fear you’re correct on all fronts, doesn’t look good for this iPad!

I was thinking of using this device just as a streaming device for the tv, so wouldn’t worry about having a passcode on it or doing anything requiring any security. Lack of home button could be an issue however! Haha

I’m going to have a play with it and see if anything happens, it’s destined to be recycled anyway so nothing to lose. Just trying to give it some extra life.

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Answer 4

Byrney33 Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 28, 2022 12:29 PM in response to LotusPilot

I’m sure the precious metals inside will remain intact!

I’ll give it a go in the name of science and wonder, “A mans reach should extend his grasp or what is heaven for!”

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IPad Pro without screen

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