Save it from the dumpster...

Question

Level 1

23 points

Save it from the dumpster...

I was recently given an iPad mini 2, which has been upgraded to iOS 12.5.7, which I understand is the newest OS that this tablet will take. This is fine, I get it, it's a 14-year-old tablet. I don't expect it to run the latest apps, or OS; I recognize that a newer tablet is in order - but yet this one still works. Sure, upgrade the "daily driver", but I need some suggestions on what I can do with this one, aside from using it as a high-tech paperweight. If it were an older PC, I'd slap some flavor of Linux on it, and use it to run some kind of server or something. What "Second Life" can I give this tablet?

iPad mini, iOS 12

Posted on Oct 23, 2025 10:13 AM

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Answer 1

Oct 23, 2025 10:38 AM in response to NHBulldog

I've seen suggestions to use it as a digital picture frame. If you put "how to use an old iPad as a photo frame" into your favorite search engine, you'll get lots of instructions.

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Answer 2

muguy

Level 10

90,914 points

Oct 23, 2025 10:18 AM in response to NHBulldog

You can continue to use the functionality provided by the apps installed. Likely to check email and browse the internet

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Answer 3

Oct 23, 2025 10:23 AM in response to NHBulldog

With the obsolete iPad mini2 being incapable of update beyond iOS 12.5.7, you will discover that very few compatible Apps remain available for iOS 12 and earlier.

The iPad hardware does not support linux disto's or alternative Operating Systems. As such, your iPad mini2 will now have very limited utility or usefulness.

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