How to turn your iPad mini into a Kindle

Creating a "Kindle mode" on your iPad for distraction-free reading.

Dec 8, 2024

Kindle app on an iPad Mini
Kindle app on an iPad Mini

The size of the iPad Mini closely resembles that of a Kindle.

However, unlike the Kindle, which can keep you laser-focused on reading, the iPad can be distracting with all its apps and web browsing just a tap away.

In this article, I'll show you how to create a Kindle-like reading experience on your iPad.


1. Install the Kindle app

First, install the Kindle app from the App Store. Then, log in to your account and download your books to the device.

Kindle app on the App Store


2. Turn on greyscale filter

Removing colors from your device, even temporarily, can reduce visual stimulation and prevent distractions.

In my experience, it creates a more balanced and rational mindset. When choosing books to read, you're less likely to be drawn in by bright, flashy covers.

To enable the grayscale filter, go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size > Color Filters.

Then, toggle Color Filters on and ensure Grayscale is selected.

Greyscale filter in iPad settings


3. Turn on Guided Access

Guided Access is a built-in iOS feature that can lock your device to a single app.

To enable it, go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access and turn on the toggle.

On the same page, enable "Accessibility Shortcut" for quick access to this feature.

Guided Access feature in iPad settings

More importantly, set a passcode that will be required to exit Guided Access.

I recommend turning off the Touch ID option to make it harder to exit Guided Access and the Kindle app.

If you prefer not to rely on your self-control, you can also ask someone you trust to choose a passcode for you.

Setting the Guided Access passcode in iPad settings


4. Start Guided Access in Kindle

Finally, open the Kindle app and triple-click the power or home button to enter Guided Access.

The only way to leave the app now is to exit Guided Access. You will need to triple-click the same button again and enter the passcode you set earlier.

You can now enjoy a distraction-free reading experience on your iPad, just like a Kindle.

Kindle app on an iPad Mini


5. Create an Automation (Bonus)

Instead of entering Guided Access manually, you can automate it using the Apple Shortcuts app.

If you haven't already, first download the Shortcuts app from the App Store.

Shortcuts app on the App Store

Then, open the Shortcuts app, navigate to the Automation tab, and create a new automation.

Choose "App" as your automation trigger, select Kindle as the app, and set it to run immediately.

Opening the Kindle app now triggers this automation.

On the next screen, you'll set up the actions that will run when this automation is triggered.

First, add an action to turn on Color Filters, then add another action to start Guided Access.

Now, every time you open the Kindle app, it will automatically turn on the grayscale filter and start Guided Access, allowing you to enjoy a "Kindle mode" on your iPad.

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