> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.simplebooth.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/prepare-your-ipad.md).

# Prepare Your iPad

If you’re using Simple Booth for the first time, or setting up on a brand-new iPad, there are a few important steps to complete before your first event.

These steps only need to be done once per device.

{% hint style="info" %}
These instructions reflect the latest version of iPadOS. If your iPad isn’t fully up to date, some settings may be named or located slightly differently.
{% endhint %}

***

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Download the App

Install the [HALO app](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/simple-booth-halo/id1323267760) from the App Store. 
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Enable Guided Access

Guided Access prevents participants from leaving the booth during your event.

[Enable Guided Access](https://support.apple.com/111795) in your iPad settings as a one-time setup step. During events, you’ll start a Guided Access session each time you launch the booth.

You’ll learn when and how to start Guided Access in the [Pre-Event Checklist](/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/pre-event-checklist.md).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Set an iPad Passcode or Face ID

For added security, set up a [passcode or enable Face ID](https://support.apple.com/guide/security/optic-face-touch-passcodes-passwords-sec9479035f1/web) on your iPad.

While Simple Booth includes built-in protections, an iPad without a passcode can allow guests to exit booth mode and access the HALO app's settings.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Enable Find My iPad

While uncommon, iPads can go missing at events.

Enabling [Find My iPad](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/locate-a-device-ipad445ff36d/ipados) adds an extra layer of protection and makes it easier to locate or secure your device if needed.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Disable Display Auto-Lock

Auto-Lock must be disabled when using Guided Access.

By default, iPadOS will dim or lock the screen after extended inactivity, even during Guided Access sessions. Disabling Auto-Lock will prevent this. 

Within the Guided Access settings, [set Auto-Lock to Never](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/guided-access-ipada16d1374/ipados).

{% hint style="warning" %}
A separate Display Auto-Lock setting is available in the iPad's Display & Brightness section, but will not affect the display while Guided Access is in use. Be sure to adjust the settings for Guided Access. 
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Disable Disruptive Display & Keyboard Settings

Some system settings can visually alter the booth experience or cause unexpected behavior. We recommend disabling the following to help ensure consistent colors, predictable input, and a clean participant experience.

**From** [**Display settings**](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/display-text-size-ipad9a246013/ipados)

* Smart Invert
* Classic Invert
* Color Filters (set to off)
* Reduce White Point
* Auto-Brightness

**From** [**Keyboard settings**](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/add-or-change-keyboards-ipad1aa5a19a/ipados)

* Disable keyboards for any languages you are not using 
  * The emoji keyboard can also be disabled
* Disable [text replacement](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/use-text-replacements-ipad997d96b7/ipados)
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Disable iCloud Photo Sharing (Optional)

If iCloud Photo syncing is enabled, event photos may quickly fill your iCloud storage.

Disabling this is recommended, especially for high-volume events, to avoid unexpected storage warnings or charges.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


---

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