Tech Tips

Calls and texts using your iPad Mini – Is it a good solution?

You may not know this, but the iPad Mini can be used as a smartphone alternative. It may not be designed for this purpose, but there are ways to make/receive calls and send or receive texts using the iPad Mini. In order to be able to use your iPhone Mini as a mobile phone, first you need to get a few free apps and an internet connection. It should also be noted that Android tablets can also be turned into a smartphone following the same process. Although the iPad or an Android tablet may seem too big to be used as mobile phones, many people would prefer to only have one smart device to reduce costs. Plus, size is actually an advantage in some cases since you can see information and read texts easily.

The iPad Mini is still lightweight after all, specially when you compare it to the standard iPad. In addition, the Mini is available for a lower price. While you won’t be able to fit the device in your pocket, it will fit in your backpack or handbag, and in some large jacket pockets. The advantages of being able to use the iPad Mini as a phone are more than the downside of having to carry a larger device. Besides, nowadays it is possible to find many accessories and carrying cases that make things very simple when you need to bring your iPad on the go.

What about call quality and stability?

The apps that you use to be able to make and receive calls using your tablet allow you to enjoy stable and high quality communication. Your texts and phone calls will go through without any issues. One of the apps that you can use for this purpose is Google Voice, which supports a wide selection of features. You will be able to access voicemails and texts without issues. Google Voice supports convenient features, not only for iPad users, but for other platforms. You will be able to check your texts and voicemails on any device in which the app is installed.

It is also possible to use a web browser. You can also reply to texts on your laptop and Google Voice will also provide transcripts of your voicemails. There is one downside tho and that is that you won’t be able to access picture messages using Google Voice. However, not many people send images video texts these days. You can simply ask your friends and family to email you the photos or to send them via iMessage instead. There is another point that should be taken into consideration if you are thinking about using your iPad or Android tablet as a smartphone and that is that it won’t be possible to call emergency services (911) using the apps that let you use the device as a smartphone.

Now, there is one major benefit when using your tablet as a mobile phone and that is battery life. Many smartphones have disappointing battery life and you would need to make sure that you can find a place to charge them, or have a portable charger with you at all times. Even with normal use, you may find that your smartphone only lasts for a few hours. The iPad Mini on the other hand can last for a full day, even if you are using the device heavily. This is due to the fact that it has a larger tablet battery, you may eve get two days of continuous use. As long as you don’t have other apps that are draining the battery life and you are mainly using WiFi, your battery life can last for ages when you use your tablet as your main communication device.

Reduced costs

Another good reason for using your iPad or Android tablet as a smartphone replacement is that you can save money. If you have a regular smartphone contract, you can end up paying high monthly bills for calls and texts. Mobile carriers usually make you get a voice and data plan and in many cases, a texting plan as well. Using your iPad means that you won’t need to pay for texting or voice plans. Even if you get a data plan for your iPad, you will end up paying less. Besides, nowadays it is very easy to find places that have WiFi, even if you are on the go. You can make leave the data for browsing and urgent calls or texts, and leave streaming and similar activities for those moments when you have WiFi. There are pre-paid plans that give you flexibility to get as much as you need, without worrying about having to cancel or paying for monthly subscriptions.

What about comfort?

We previously mentioned the issue with size and many people may be wondering how comfortable would it be to hold your iPad or tablet as a smartphone when you are making or receiving a call. You can use an earpiece or headphones to take the calls so that you don’t have to hold the iPad. It is also worth noting that the iPad Mini features an amazing speakerphone. It is possible to use your Bluetooth headset if you prefer and the iPad Mini can be used well in speakerphone mode in your car when you plug it into your car stereo’s auxiliary jack.

Conclusion

Using your iPad Mini as your mobile device can help you to save money. Not only you won’t have to get a smartphone, but will also avoid monthly bills on voice and texting plans. However, there are some restrictions and you need to have an internet connection at all times. It is also important to keep in mind that to get the best possible experience, you need to have a mobile carrier that offers a good data plan with extensive coverage and satisfactory speeds. For many people, the fact that it can’t be carried in a pocket would be a deal breaker, but if you usually carry a handbag or backpack, this shouldn’t be a major issue.

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