Laatste update: 25 september 2025

iPad apps for adults, where do you start?

The best iPad apps for adults

You want to use your iPad for more than just reading the news. But where do you begin? The App Store is packed with millions of apps. Yet, everything feels too young, too busy, too complicated. Snapchat this, TikTok that. Yet, there's another reality. One no one talks about. Namely, that the best iPad apps for adults are actually the same old, familiar games—only smarter.

Take Wordfeud , which is just Scrabble, but you play it against friends far away. Or Einstein's brain training , which trains your mind without it feeling like homework. No hassle of creating accounts. No endless notifications. Just fun, useful apps that do what they promise. We've listed the five best for you.

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Discover the digital world at your own pace

The App Store boasts millions of apps, but not all are suitable for everyone. While younger generations navigate social media effortlessly, many adults are looking for apps that feel familiar yet offer the benefits of modern technology. The good news? These apps are plentiful. They combine the best of both worlds: the games and activities you know, but smarter and more accessible.

1. Wordfeud: Scrabble rediscovered

The charm of Wordfeud lies in its simplicity. It's just Scrabble, that board game you used to spend hours playing at the kitchen table. Only now you're playing against friends far away, or strangers from all over the world. You place words on the digital board, score points with difficult letters, and keep your vocabulary sharp.

The beauty of this app? You don't have to react immediately. A game can last days, allowing you to take your time and think about your next move. No stress, no time pressure. The app sends a notification when your opponent has played, but you decide when to react.

2. Einstein's brain gymnastics: getting your brain moving

Scientists agree: your brain needs exercise, just like your body. This app turns that exercise into an enjoyable daily routine. With various puzzles and exercises, you'll challenge different parts of your brain. From mental arithmetic to spatial awareness, from memory exercises to logic puzzles.

After each session, you'll receive a brain score. This isn't a pass/fail exam, but a personal benchmark. You'll see your progress, notice which days you're sharper, and discover which exercises you enjoy most. The app adapts to your level, so it stays challenging without becoming frustrating.

3. NOS Teletext: familiar news in a new guise

Teletext on your iPad feels like coming home. The same clear pages, the same quick news, but without having to turn on the TV. Navigating is even more enjoyable on a touchscreen. You can swipe through the pages with your finger, tap topics that interest you, and zoom in on text that's too small.

The app saves your favorite pages, so you can jump straight to sports news, the weather, or traffic information. No ads, no distracting videos, just the information you need at your own pace.

4. FaceTime: Staying in touch becomes child's play

FaceTime comes standard on every iPad, and that's no coincidence. Apple has made this video calling app as user-friendly as possible. You don't need to create an account or remember passwords. If you have an Apple ID (necessary for your iPad), FaceTime works automatically.

Calling is as simple as making a phone call. You select a contact, tap the camera icon, and the connection is made. The screen displays the person's face large and clear. You can even call multiple people at once, which is handy for a digital family gathering.

5. Solitaire: timeless pastime

Playing solitaire on your iPad has a calming effect. The cards slide smoothly across the screen, stacking is automatic, and if you get stuck, the app provides hints. No more shuffling real cards, no more cards falling off the table.

Modern solitaire apps often offer multiple variations. Besides classic solitaire, you'll find FreeCell, Spider Solitaire, and Hearts. Each variation offers its own challenge, but the basic principles remain the same. Perfect for a quiet moment in between.

Choosing the right iPad

You don't need a brand-new iPad for these apps. A refurbished model from 2018 or 2019 will suffice. These models run the latest software smoothly and will continue to be supported by Apple for years to come. The difference compared to a new iPad? Primarily the price.

Choose a Wi-Fi model if you primarily use it at home. This will save you money and you won't need a monthly data plan. In terms of storage, 32 GB is usually sufficient for apps, photos, and some music. Only if you plan to download a lot of movies or store thousands of photos is 128 GB recommended.

Discover more apps

These five apps are just the beginning. The App Store is full of similar gems. Think puzzle games like Sudoku, crosswords, or jigsaw puzzles. Or practical apps like a magnifying glass, a flashlight, or an app for medication reminders.

The secret is to start small. Download one or two apps, get to know them, and discover what you like. Feel free to ask family or friends for help with installation. Once installed, most apps are designed so you can use them independently.

The iPad opens up a world of possibilities, but you decide the pace at which you explore it. With the right apps, your tablet becomes a valuable tool for entertainment, connecting with others, and keeping your mind sharp.

Make your iPad a valuable tool

The iPad doesn't have to be a complicated device. With apps like Wordfeud, Einstein's Brain Exercise, and the trusted NOS Teletext, you can get the most out of your tablet without any hassle . Start with one or two apps that appeal to you and build on them from there.

A refurbished iPad offers all the features you need for a fraction of the original price. This way, you can discover at your own pace that technology isn't scary, but actually opens new doors to entertainment, connecting with others, and keeping your mind active.

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