LostHour

Ready Check / iPad

Get an iPad ready to be found

4 settings. Menu names differ between versions; the maker’s page beside each one is the source.

  1. 1

    Turn on Find My iPad, the Find My network and Send Last Location

    Settings[your name]Find MyFind My iPad

    Without it the iPad cannot be shown on a map or locked remotely.

    Source: Apple: How to turn on Find My on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac

  2. 2

    Use a passcode with Face ID or Touch ID

    SettingsFace ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode)

    Lost Mode locks the iPad with this passcode.

    Source: Apple: How to find your lost iPhone or iPad

  3. 3

    Turn on iCloud Backup

    Settings[your name]iCloudiCloud Backup

    The iPad can be replaced; what is on it often cannot.

    Source: Apple: How to back up your iPhone or iPad with iCloud

  4. 4

    Write down the serial number (and IMEI on cellular models)

    SettingsGeneralAbout

    Needed for a police report or insurance claim.

    Source: Apple: Find the serial number or IMEI on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

Keep the numbers where you can reach them

Put this iPad in a private plan: its serial, IMEI and carrier number, ticked settings, and its own “it’s missing” page. Two devices free. Lost Hour Pass is $1.95 a month or $19.50 a year for 12 devices; Household is $3.95 a month or $39.50 a year for 30. Free during preview: nothing is charged.

Start a plan

Already missing? The first-hour steps for this iPad →