I’m sure many of us have been in a situation where the physical home button of our iPad stops functioning, leaving us with no way to exit an app or return to the home screen. It can be a frustrating situation as the home button is essential for iPad navigation. Fortunately, there is a solution that can help you regain control of your iPad by adding a touchscreen home button.
So, in this article, we will discuss how to add a touchscreen home button to your iPad. We will cover what you need to get started, what requires your focus, different methods to add a touchscreen home button, why you can’t add a physical home button, and implications and recommendations. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about adding a touchscreen home button and provide final words.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we start discussing different methods to add a touchscreen home button, here are some prerequisites that you need to take care of:
1. iPad case with a home button cutout – Firstly, you need an iPad case that has a home button cutout. This cutout is essential as it will allow you to place the touchscreen home button in the correct position, without blocking access to other buttons or ports.
2. Touchscreen digitizer – Next, you need to purchase a touchscreen digitizer. This digitizer will replace the physical home button and add a touchscreen button instead.
3. Screwdriver set – You will need a screwdriver set that is compatible with the screws on your iPad.
What Requires Your Focus?
Installing a touchscreen home button on the iPad is not an easy task. It requires focus and attention to detail throughout the process. One mistake can lead to damage to your iPad. So, before you start, make sure to:
1. Read the instructions carefully – Make sure you read and understand the instructions that come with the touchscreen digitizer.
2. Take your time – This is not a process that can be rushed. Take your time and work carefully to avoid damaging your iPad.
3. Have necessary tools- Get all the necessary tools and check their compatibility.
4. Don’t apply too much pressure – Be careful not to apply too much pressure on the iPad screen or any other part of the device as it may result in damage.
Different Methods to Add Touchscreen Home Button on iPad
There are various methods available to add a touchscreen home button on an iPad. Below, we will discuss four different methods.
Method 1: Using a Third-party App
This is the easiest method to add a touchscreen home button on your iPad. You can use a third-party app like Virtual Home, which creates a virtual home button on the screen.
1. Go to the App Store and download a third-party app called Virtual Home.
2. Install the app and open the settings menu.
3. Configure the settings according to your preference.
4. Use the newly added virtual home button instead of the physical home button.
Pros:
– No need for additional hardware.
– Easy to install.
– Can be customized according to your preference.
Cons:
– Not suitable for people with a broken screen, as it uses the touch screen.
– May cause battery drain.
Method 2: Using an AssistiveTouch
Apple provides an AssistiveTouch feature, which allows you to add a virtual home button to the screen.
1. Open the Settings app on your iPad.
2. Go to General > Accessibility.
3. Scroll down to AssistiveTouch and turn on the switch.
4. Tap the Customize Top Level Menu to select what icons appear on the virtual button.
5. Once you have customized it, you can use the virtual home button instead of the physical home button.
Pros:
– Easy to add.
– Customizable.
– Can be used for multiple functions.
Cons:
– The virtual button can only be moved around the screen, but cannot be removed.
Method 3: Replacing the Physical Button with Touch Sensor Home Button
This method involves replacing the physical home button with a touch sensor home button.
1. Remove the existing home button from your iPad.
2. Install the new touch sensor home button in its place.
3. Attach the wire connector to the touchscreen digitizer.
4. Screw the digitizer back into place and test the new button.
Pros:
– You get to keep the same physical feel of the original home button.
– The touch sensor home button does not require a battery.
Cons:
– Can be difficult for beginners to replace the physical home button.
– If the touch sensor gets damaged, the entire part needs to be replaced.
Method 4: Using a Sticker
If you’re not comfortable replacing the physical button, you can use a sticker that simulates the function of the home button.
1. Purchase a home button sticker that is compatible with your iPad model.
2. Peel off the sticker and place it over the existing home button.
3. Test the new button to ensure that it works correctly.
Pros:
– Easy to install.
– Cost-effective.
Cons:
– Not permanent and may need to be reapplied often.
– Does not replicate the physical feel of the original home button.
Why Can’t I Add a Physical Home Button?
Adding a physical home button to an iPad is not possible. The home button is an integral part of the iPad hardware.
There are several reasons why you may not be able to add a physical home button:
1. Complicated Machinery – The machinery of an iPad is very complex, and adding hardware requires technical knowledge and skills.
2. Replacing the motherboard – The motherboard of an iPad contains the firmware that allows the home button to work. If the home button is damaged, you may need to replace the motherboard, which is expensive and requires professional support.
3. Security reasons – The home button on an iPad is also associated with Touch ID, a secure way of unlocking the device. Installing a new home button may not be secure and could compromise the functionality of Touch ID.
Implications and Recommendations
Adding a touchscreen home button to an iPad can be a lifesaver, especially if your physical home button has stopped working. However, it is important to keep in mind that adding a new part to your iPad hardware can void your warranty.
Here are some implications and recommendations for adding a touchscreen home button to your iPad:
1. Check your warranty – Before adding any new hardware, check your warranty terms and conditions.
2. Professional Assistance – Adding hardware to your iPad is a complicated task. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, seek professional assistance.
3. Follow instructions precisely – Ensure proper installation by following instructions precisely that come with the part.
5 FAQs about Adding Touchscreen Home Button on iPad
Q1: Is it safe to add a touchscreen home button to my iPad?
A: Adding a touchscreen home button can be safe if you follow proper instructions. However, it can also void your warranty, so it is crucial to weigh the risks associated.
Q2: Can I remove the touchscreen home button once it is installed?
A: Yes, you can remove the touchscreen home button. However, the new button could leave residual damages to the device, so it is important to be cautious.
Q3: Will the touchscreen home button work the same way the physical button did?
A: It will work in the same way, but the tactile sensation will differ.
Q4: Can I customize the functions of the touchscreen button?
A: In most cases, yes, but it depends on the app or setting that you use.
Q5: What should I do if I face difficulty during the installation process?
A: If you’re facing difficulty, stop the process, and seek professional assistance, especially if it is your first time.
Final Words
Adding a touchscreen home button to an iPad is an excellent way to gain control over your device if your physical home button doesn’t work anymore. However, it is crucial to be careful during the installation process and ensure proper installation. Consider all the above methods and respective pros and cons before deciding on which one to use.