Using an iPad 1 as a digital picture frame

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Level 1

26 points

Using an iPad 1 as a digital picture frame

Hi

I framed and wall mounted my iPad 1 so I can use it as a digital picture frame. But to turn it off and on I have to take it off the wall and remove the device from the frame.

I'd also like to use it to 'frame' other things beyond my photos. For example showing the weather forecast. And other 'smart' type wall mounted applications. To do this I would ideally control it from another iDevice.

From my research however, easy remote-control options don't exist (I think I can jailbreak it and then vpn with a Mac). My son wondered if I could control it with an external device via the charging port or even the headphone jack. Lateral ideas I thought, but do such solutions exists?

All ideas welcome to help turn an old iPad 1 into a great digital picture frame device.

iPad, iOS 5.1.1

Posted on Jun 13, 2016 11:59 PM

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Answer 1

Esquared

Level 6

12,415 points

Jun 14, 2016 1:25 AM in response to LomasNZ

The only thing I can think of – but never tried myself – would be using a bluetooth keyboard. Which would only leave the problem of the on/off switch.

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Answer 2

LomasNZ Author

Level 1

26 points

Jun 14, 2016 1:28 AM in response to Esquared

Good thinking on the Bluetooth! I had actually got it into my mind that the iPad 1 did not have Bluetooth. It is located under General in Preferences. Not where it is now. So I had thought it was not supported. I have now connected a Bluetooth keyboard. But as you say - on & off are not obvious features.

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Answer 3

Esquared

Level 6

12,415 points

Jun 14, 2016 2:05 AM in response to LomasNZ

I don't think the iPad 1 already had a magnetic on/off feature, or am I wrong? In that case you would be able to switch it on/off with a magnet.

Another solution would be to modify the frame so the two main buttons are somehow accessible.

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Answer 4

LomasNZ Author

Level 1

26 points

Jun 14, 2016 2:12 AM in response to Esquared

No, the iPad 1 did not have the magnet feature.

I am making progress with the Bluetooth keyboard. If I enable VoiceOver On on settings then the short cuts on the Bluetooth keyboard can be used and I can navigate around the iPad using the keyboard. Which makes it a whole better experience.

"On" works fine as you just tap the keyboard and the iPad comes to life and logged in. However, the Picture Frame feature is only accessible from the lock screen. Which is bypassed. And still there is no obvious off feature. Still looking however....

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