How to Turn an Old iPad into a Digital Photo Frame
Reuse an iPad or iPhone you already own as a beautiful digital photo frame with a clock and date overlay. No new hardware, no photo uploads, and it only takes a few minutes to set up.
Why turn an old iPad into a photo frame?
Millions of perfectly working iPads and iPhones sit unused in drawers after an upgrade. Dedicated digital photo frames cost $80–$200 and generate new e-waste. By installing a photo frame app on a device you already own, you extend its useful life, reduce electronic waste, and create a meaningful way to display your memories.
According to the UNEP Global E-waste Monitor 2024, the world generated 62 million tonnes of e-waste in 2022 — and only about 17% was formally recycled. Reusing a working device is one of the highest-impact choices you can make.
What you need
- An iPad or iPhone running iOS 15.1 or later (most models from 2016–2017 onward qualify).
- A stand, dock, or foldable case to keep the device upright.
- A power cable for continuous use (optional but recommended).
- SimplePhotoFrame — a free app available on the App Store.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1. Check your iOS version
Open Settings › General › About and confirm your device runs iOS 15.1 or later. SimplePhotoFrame supports iOS 15.1+, which covers the vast majority of iPads released since 2017 and iPhones since 2016.
Step 2. Install SimplePhotoFrame
Open the App Store on your device, search for SimplePhotoFrame, and tap Get. The app is completely free and does not require an account, sign-up, or in-app purchases.
Step 3. Select the photos to display
Launch the app and grant permission to access your photo library. Choose the albums or individual photos you want to show. Important: all photo selection and processing happens on-device — nothing is uploaded to a server, so your private photos stay private.
Step 4. Configure slideshow interval and clock
In Settings, choose how often photos change — from every few seconds to several minutes. Toggle the clock and date on or off independently, and use the enlarged clock size option for better visibility from across the room. Pick one of 8 matte colors (Dark, White, Ocean, Sunset, Forest, Rose, Lavender, Oak) to match your decor.
Step 5. Place it and enjoy
Stand the device upright on a dock or foldable case, plug in the power cable for continuous operation, and your sustainable digital photo frame is ready. The slideshow and clock work fully offline after setup; only the optional banner ads require a connection.
Tips for the best experience
- Keep the device plugged in for 24/7 use; the screen will stay on while the app is open.
- Use the enlarged clock size if the frame will sit across a room.
- Try different matte colors to match the season or room.
- Disable notifications in Settings › Notifications so the slideshow stays clean.
Frequently asked questions
Do my photos get uploaded to the cloud?
No. SimplePhotoFrame reads photos from your local photo library and displays them on-screen. Nothing is uploaded to any server.
Can I use an old iPad that no longer receives iOS updates?
Yes. As long as it runs iOS 15.1 or later, SimplePhotoFrame will work. In fact, giving a no-longer-updated iPad a second role as a photo frame is one of the best ways to extend its life.
Is the app really free?
Yes. SimplePhotoFrame is free and supported by small AdMob banner ads. There are no in-app purchases or subscriptions.
Does it work on iPhone as well as iPad?
Yes. SimplePhotoFrame runs on both iPad and iPhone, so you can turn any spare iOS device into a digital photo frame.
Ready to give your old device a second life?
Download SimplePhotoFrame for free and turn your iPad or iPhone into a sustainable digital photo frame in minutes.
Download on the App Store