Why Does My iPad Do That? Troubleshooting Common Issues

Trendian Staff

Ah, the iPad. A sleek piece of tech that’s become an essential part of our daily lives. From browsing the web and streaming videos to working on documents and playing games, it does a lot. But sometimes, it acts up. You might find yourself staring at a frozen screen, a sluggish performance, or a battery that drains faster than you can say ‘Apple Pencil’. Sound familiar? If you’re scratching your head and wondering, ‘why does my iPad do that?’, you’re in the right place.

We’ve all been there. That moment of frustration when your iPad just isn’t cooperating. But before you throw it across the room (we’ve all thought about it!), take a deep breath. Most iPad issues are easily fixable. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common problems, explaining the ‘why’ behind them and providing clear, step-by-step solutions. We’ll cover everything from simple software glitches to more complex hardware considerations.

Whether you’re a seasoned iPad user or new to the Apple ecosystem, this guide is designed to help you troubleshoot your device, understand its quirks, and get it back to performing at its best. Let’s get started and turn those iPad woes into a thing of the past!

iPad Performance Issues: Slowdowns and Freezes

One of the most common complaints is a slow or unresponsive iPad. This can manifest in several ways: apps take a long time to load, the device freezes unexpectedly, or the overall system feels sluggish. Let’s explore the causes and solutions.

Software Glitches and Bugs

Software glitches are often the culprit behind performance problems. iOS, like any operating system, can have bugs that cause unexpected behavior. These can be triggered by app conflicts, corrupted files, or issues within the OS itself. A simple restart is often the first and most effective step.

  • Restarting Your iPad: A simple restart can clear temporary files and resolve minor software hiccups. Press and hold the power button (top button on most iPads) until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider, wait 30 seconds, and then press and hold the power button again to turn it back on. For iPads with Face ID, you’ll need to press and quickly release the volume up button, then the volume down button, then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.
  • Force Restart: If your iPad is frozen and unresponsive, a force restart is necessary. The process varies depending on your iPad model. Follow the same steps as a restart, but hold the power button until the Apple logo appears. This will interrupt the current processes and force the system to reboot.

Storage Space Management

Running out of storage space is a major contributor to slow performance. When your iPad’s storage is nearly full, it struggles to manage files, update apps, and perform basic operations. Regularly check your storage usage and free up space.

  • Check Storage: Go to Settings > General > iPad Storage. This will show you a breakdown of what’s taking up space on your iPad.
  • Delete Unused Apps: Apps you don’t use are taking up valuable space. Long-press an app icon on the Home Screen, tap ‘Remove App’, then ‘Delete App’.
  • Clear App Caches: Apps store cached data to speed up loading times. Over time, these caches can become large and slow down your iPad. You can often clear the cache within the app’s settings (e.g., in Safari, go to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data). Some apps don’t offer a direct cache clearing option, so deleting and reinstalling the app is the solution.
  • Manage Photos and Videos: Photos and videos often consume the most storage. Consider these options:
    • iCloud Photos: Enable iCloud Photos in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos and choose ‘Optimize iPad Storage’. This stores full-resolution photos in iCloud and keeps smaller, optimized versions on your iPad.
    • Delete Unwanted Media: Regularly review and delete photos and videos you no longer need.
    • Transfer to a Computer: Move large media files to your computer or an external hard drive to free up space on your iPad.
  • Delete Downloads: Check your Files app for downloaded files, especially large ones like movies or music. Delete anything you no longer need.

Background App Refresh

Background App Refresh allows apps to update their content in the background, which can improve user experience. However, it can also consume system resources and slow down performance, especially on older iPads or those with limited RAM.

  • Disable Background App Refresh: Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. You can either turn it off entirely or selectively disable it for specific apps. Consider disabling it for apps you don’t use frequently.

Outdated Software

Running an outdated version of iOS can lead to performance issues, security vulnerabilities, and compatibility problems. Apple regularly releases software updates that include bug fixes, performance improvements, and security patches. Keep your iPad’s software up to date.

  • Update iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, download and install it. Make sure your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery life (or is plugged in) before starting the update.

Battery Health and Performance

An aging battery can also affect performance. As batteries age, their capacity diminishes, leading to slower performance and shorter battery life. iOS includes a battery health feature to help you monitor your battery’s condition.

  • Check Battery Health: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. This will show you the maximum capacity of your battery compared to when it was new. If the battery health is significantly degraded (e.g., below 80%), it may be time to consider replacing the battery.
  • Optimize Battery Charging: Enable ‘Optimized Battery Charging’ in Settings > Battery > Battery Health. This feature helps to reduce battery aging by learning your charging habits and delaying charging past 80% until you need to use your iPad.

Hardware Considerations

While less common, hardware issues can also contribute to performance problems.

  • Overheating: If your iPad is frequently overheating, it may throttle performance to protect its internal components. Avoid using your iPad in direct sunlight or hot environments.
  • RAM Limitations: Older iPads have less RAM (Random Access Memory) than newer models. This can limit the number of apps you can run simultaneously and lead to slower performance. Closing unused apps can free up RAM. Double-tap the Home button (or swipe up from the bottom of the screen on newer models) to open the App Switcher and swipe up on apps to close them.
  • Hardware Failure: In rare cases, a hardware component (e.g., the processor or storage) may be failing, leading to performance issues. If you suspect a hardware problem, contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

iPad Battery Drain: Causes and Solutions

A rapidly draining battery is a frustrating experience. Here’s a breakdown of the common causes and how to address them.

High Screen Brightness

The iPad’s screen is a major power consumer. A high screen brightness setting will drain the battery significantly faster.

  • Adjust Brightness: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (or swipe up from the bottom of the screen on older models) to access the Control Center. Adjust the brightness slider to a comfortable level. Ideally, use auto-brightness.
  • Enable Auto-Brightness: Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and make sure ‘Auto-Brightness’ is toggled on. The iPad will automatically adjust the screen brightness based on ambient light conditions.

Background App Activity

Apps running in the background can consume battery power, even when you’re not actively using them. This includes apps refreshing content, downloading data, or using location services.

  • Disable Background App Refresh: As mentioned earlier, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and disable it for apps you don’t need to update in the background.
  • Close Unused Apps: Close apps you’re not using. Double-tap the Home button (or swipe up from the bottom of the screen on newer models) to open the App Switcher and swipe up on apps to close them.

Location Services

Apps using location services constantly access your iPad’s GPS, which can drain the battery. Some apps legitimately need location data, but others may be using it unnecessarily. (See Also: Why Isn’t My iPad and iPhone Syncing? Troubleshooting Guide)

  • Review Location Services: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Review the list of apps and their location access permissions.
    • ‘Never’: The app is not allowed to access your location.
    • ‘Ask Next Time’: The app will ask for permission each time it needs your location.
    • ‘While Using the App’: The app can access your location only when you’re using it.
    • ‘Always’: The app can access your location at any time, even in the background. Be cautious with this setting.
  • Limit Location Access: Change the location access setting for apps to ‘While Using the App’ or ‘Never’ if they don’t need constant access to your location.

Push Notifications

Push notifications can wake up your iPad and consume battery power. Receiving a constant stream of notifications can contribute to battery drain.

  • Manage Notifications: Go to Settings > Notifications. Review the notification settings for each app.
    • Turn Off Notifications: Disable notifications for apps you don’t need to be notified about.
    • Choose Delivery Method: Select how notifications are delivered (e.g., ‘Lock Screen’, ‘Notification Center’).

Email Fetch Settings

If you use the Mail app, how often it checks for new emails can affect battery life.

  • Adjust Fetch Settings: Go to Settings > Mail > Accounts > Fetch New Data.
    • ‘Fetch’: Your iPad will regularly check for new emails. You can choose the frequency (e.g., ‘Automatically’, ‘Every 15 Minutes’, ‘Every 30 Minutes’, ‘Hourly’).
    • ‘Push’: Your email provider will send new emails to your iPad as soon as they arrive (requires your email provider to support push). This is generally more battery-efficient than ‘Fetch’.

Software Updates

Outdated software can sometimes cause battery drain issues. Ensure you’re running the latest version of iOS.

  • Update iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Download and install any available updates.

Battery Health

As an iPad battery ages, its capacity decreases, leading to shorter battery life. Check your battery health.

  • Check Battery Health: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If the battery health is significantly degraded, consider replacing the battery.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Keeping Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled when you’re not using them can drain battery power.

  • Turn Off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (or swipe up from the bottom on older models) to access the Control Center. Tap the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth icons to disable them when you’re not using them.

Hardware Issues

In rare cases, a hardware problem (e.g., a faulty battery) may be causing excessive battery drain. If you suspect a hardware issue, contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

iPad Wi-Fi and Connectivity Problems

Wi-Fi connectivity issues can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you rely on your iPad for work or entertainment. Let’s explore some common problems and solutions.

Weak Wi-Fi Signal

A weak Wi-Fi signal can lead to slow loading times, buffering, and dropped connections. The distance from your Wi-Fi router, obstructions (walls, furniture), and interference from other devices can all affect signal strength.

  • Move Closer to the Router: The simplest solution is to move closer to your Wi-Fi router.
  • Reduce Obstructions: Ensure there are no major obstructions (e.g., thick walls, metal objects) between your iPad and the router.
  • Check Router Placement: Position your router in a central, open location in your home or office.

Incorrect Wi-Fi Password

Entering the wrong Wi-Fi password is a common cause of connectivity problems.

  • Verify Password: Double-check that you’re entering the correct Wi-Fi password. Passwords are case-sensitive.
  • Forget and Rejoin the Network: Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the ‘i’ icon next to your Wi-Fi network, and tap ‘Forget This Network’. Then, rejoin the network and enter the password again.

Wi-Fi Router Issues

The problem may not be with your iPad, but with your Wi-Fi router.

  • Restart Your Router: Unplug your router from the power outlet, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. This often resolves temporary router issues.
  • Check Router Firmware: Make sure your router’s firmware is up to date. Check the manufacturer’s website for instructions.
  • Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP): If the problem persists, contact your ISP to check for service outages or other issues.

Network Congestion

If many devices are using the same Wi-Fi network simultaneously, this can lead to slower speeds and connectivity problems.

  • Reduce Network Usage: Limit the number of devices using the Wi-Fi network at the same time. Consider prioritizing your iPad’s traffic in your router’s settings (if available).

Outdated Network Settings

Incorrect or outdated network settings on your iPad can also cause Wi-Fi problems.

  • Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will reset your Wi-Fi passwords and other network settings to their defaults. You’ll need to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords after resetting.

Interference

Other electronic devices operating on the same frequency as your Wi-Fi router can cause interference and disrupt the Wi-Fi signal. (See Also: Where Are Documents on iPad? Finding & Managing Your Files)

  • Identify and Reduce Interference: Move your iPad and router away from other devices that may be causing interference (e.g., microwaves, Bluetooth devices, other Wi-Fi routers).
  • Change Wi-Fi Channel: Access your router’s settings (usually through a web browser) and change the Wi-Fi channel. Try different channels to find one that provides the best performance.

iOS Software Issues

Sometimes, the iOS software itself can cause Wi-Fi problems.

  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Reset All Settings: If the problem persists, you can try resetting all settings on your iPad. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings. This will reset all your settings (e.g., Wi-Fi passwords, Home Screen layout) to their defaults, but it won’t erase your data.

Hardware Issues

In rare cases, a hardware problem (e.g., a faulty Wi-Fi antenna) may be causing Wi-Fi issues. If you suspect a hardware problem, contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

iPad Display Problems

Issues with your iPad’s display can significantly impact your user experience. Here’s how to troubleshoot common display problems.

Screen Not Responding

If your iPad’s screen is unresponsive to touch, it can be a frustrating experience.

  • Restart Your iPad: As mentioned previously, a restart can often resolve temporary software glitches.
  • Force Restart: If the screen is completely unresponsive, try a force restart.
  • Clean the Screen: Make sure your screen is clean and free of dirt, smudges, or debris. A dirty screen can sometimes interfere with touch input.
  • Check for Screen Protectors: If you have a screen protector, make sure it’s properly installed and doesn’t interfere with touch sensitivity.
  • Hardware Issues: If the screen remains unresponsive after trying these steps, there may be a hardware issue. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

Screen Flickering

Screen flickering can be caused by software glitches or hardware problems.

  • Restart Your iPad: A simple restart can often resolve flickering issues.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Disable Auto-Brightness: Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and turn off ‘Auto-Brightness’.
  • Check for Hardware Issues: If the flickering persists, there may be a hardware issue with the display. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

Dead Pixels

Dead pixels are small, black dots that appear on the screen. They are usually a hardware issue.

  • Inspect the Screen: Carefully examine the screen for dead pixels. They are most noticeable on a white or light-colored background.
  • Contact Apple Support: If you find dead pixels, contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider. The display may need to be replaced.

Unusual Colors or Distorted Images

Distorted colors or images can be caused by software glitches or hardware problems.

  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can sometimes resolve color or image distortion issues.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Check Display Settings: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size and review the display settings. Make sure no settings are causing the distortion.
  • Hardware Issues: If the problem persists, there may be a hardware issue with the display. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

Dim or Dark Screen

A dim or dark screen can make it difficult to see what’s on your iPad.

  • Adjust Brightness: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (or swipe up from the bottom on older models) to access the Control Center and adjust the brightness slider.
  • Disable Auto-Brightness: Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and make sure ‘Auto-Brightness’ is turned off.
  • Check for Ambient Light: Make sure you’re in a well-lit environment.
  • Hardware Issues: If the screen is still dim or dark, there may be a hardware issue. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

iPad Audio Problems

Audio issues can range from no sound at all to distorted audio. Here’s how to troubleshoot common audio problems.

No Sound

If you’re not hearing any sound from your iPad, here’s what to check:

  • Check the Volume: Make sure the volume is turned up. Use the volume buttons on the side of your iPad or adjust the volume slider in the Control Center.
  • Mute Switch: Some iPads have a physical mute switch on the side. Make sure it’s not set to mute. If your iPad doesn’t have a mute switch, check the Control Center for the mute icon.
  • Check the Volume in Apps: Some apps have their own volume controls. Make sure the volume is turned up within the app.
  • Bluetooth Devices: If you’re using Bluetooth headphones or speakers, make sure they are connected and turned on.
  • Headphone Jack: If you’re using headphones, make sure they are properly plugged in. Try a different pair of headphones to rule out a headphone issue.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve temporary audio glitches.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Hardware Issues: If the problem persists, there may be a hardware issue with the speakers or audio components. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

Distorted Audio

Distorted audio can be caused by various factors.

  • Check the Volume: Lower the volume. Sometimes, audio distortion is caused by the volume being set too high.
  • Check the Speakers: Make sure the speakers are clean and free of debris.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve audio distortion issues.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Hardware Issues: If the problem persists, there may be a hardware issue with the speakers or audio components. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

Audio Not Working with Bluetooth Devices

If you’re having trouble with Bluetooth audio, try these steps:

  • Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled: Make sure Bluetooth is turned on in Settings > Bluetooth.
  • Check Pairing: Make sure your Bluetooth device is paired with your iPad. If not, put your Bluetooth device in pairing mode and connect to it from the Bluetooth settings on your iPad.
  • Check the Volume: Make sure the volume is turned up on both your iPad and your Bluetooth device.
  • Restart Your iPad and Bluetooth Device: Restart both your iPad and your Bluetooth device.
  • Forget and Re-pair: In Bluetooth settings, tap the ‘i’ icon next to your Bluetooth device and tap ‘Forget This Device’. Then, re-pair the device.
  • Check for Interference: Move your iPad and Bluetooth device away from other devices that may be causing interference.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Hardware Issues: If the problem persists, there may be a hardware issue with your iPad’s Bluetooth components or your Bluetooth device. Contact Apple Support or the manufacturer of your Bluetooth device.

iPad App Issues

Problems with apps are common. Here’s how to troubleshoot them. (See Also: Where Is Bookmark on iPad? Finding & Using Bookmarks)

App Crashing or Freezing

If an app crashes or freezes, try these steps:

  • Restart the App: Close the app and reopen it.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve app-related issues.
  • Update the App: Go to the App Store and check for updates for the app.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Delete and Reinstall the App: Delete the app and then reinstall it from the App Store. This can often resolve corrupted app files.
  • Check App Compatibility: Make sure the app is compatible with your iPad model and iOS version.
  • Contact App Developer: If the problem persists, contact the app developer for support.
  • Hardware Issues: In rare cases, a hardware problem may be causing app issues. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

App Not Downloading or Installing

If an app won’t download or install, try these steps:

  • Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
  • Check Your Apple ID: Make sure you’re signed in to your Apple ID.
  • Check Storage Space: Make sure you have enough storage space on your iPad.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve download issues.
  • Sign Out and Sign Back In to Your Apple ID: Sign out of your Apple ID in Settings > [Your Name] and then sign back in.
  • Check Parental Controls: Make sure parental controls are not restricting app downloads.
  • Contact Apple Support: If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.

App Not Working Correctly

If an app isn’t working as expected, try these steps:

  • Restart the App: Close the app and reopen it.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve app-related issues.
  • Update the App: Go to the App Store and check for updates for the app.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Check App Permissions: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security and check the app’s permissions (e.g., location, microphone, camera).
  • Delete and Reinstall the App: Delete the app and then reinstall it from the App Store.
  • Contact App Developer: If the problem persists, contact the app developer for support.

iPad Software Update Issues

Software updates are important, but sometimes they can cause problems. Here’s how to troubleshoot update issues.

Update Not Downloading

If an update won’t download, try these steps:

  • Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
  • Check Your Storage Space: Make sure you have enough storage space on your iPad.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve download issues.
  • Try Again Later: Apple’s servers may be busy, especially shortly after a new update is released. Try downloading the update again later.
  • Use iTunes or Finder: You can also update your iPad using iTunes (on Windows or older macOS versions) or Finder (on newer macOS versions). Connect your iPad to your computer and follow the on-screen instructions.
  • Contact Apple Support: If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.

Update Failed to Install

If an update fails to install, try these steps:

  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve installation issues.
  • Free Up Storage Space: Make sure you have enough storage space.
  • Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
  • Try Again Later: Apple’s servers may be busy. Try installing the update again later.
  • Restore Your iPad: If the update continues to fail, you may need to restore your iPad to its factory settings using iTunes or Finder. This will erase all your data, so make sure you have a backup.
  • Contact Apple Support: If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.

iPad Stuck on Apple Logo During Update

If your iPad is stuck on the Apple logo during an update, try these steps:

  • Force Restart: Force restart your iPad. The process varies depending on your iPad model.
  • Connect to a Computer: Connect your iPad to a computer with iTunes or Finder. Put your iPad into recovery mode and try to restore it.
  • Contact Apple Support: If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.

iPad Accessories Problems

Issues with accessories can sometimes impact your iPad experience. Here’s how to troubleshoot them.

Bluetooth Accessory Not Connecting

If a Bluetooth accessory won’t connect, try these steps:

  • Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled: Make sure Bluetooth is turned on in Settings > Bluetooth.
  • Check Pairing: Make sure the accessory is paired with your iPad. If not, put the accessory in pairing mode and connect to it from the Bluetooth settings on your iPad.
  • Check the Accessory’s Battery: Make sure the accessory has sufficient battery life.
  • Restart Your iPad and Accessory: Restart both your iPad and the Bluetooth accessory.
  • Forget and Re-pair: In Bluetooth settings, tap the ‘i’ icon next to the accessory and tap ‘Forget This Device’. Then, re-pair the accessory.
  • Check for Interference: Move your iPad and accessory away from other devices that may be causing interference.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Contact Accessory Manufacturer: If the problem persists, contact the accessory manufacturer for support.

Charging Problems

If your iPad isn’t charging, try these steps:

  • Check the Charging Cable and Adapter: Make sure the charging cable and adapter are working properly. Try a different cable and adapter.
  • Check the Charging Port: Inspect the charging port on your iPad for any debris or damage. Clean the port gently with a non-metallic tool if necessary.
  • Try a Different Power Outlet: Plug your charger into a different power outlet.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can sometimes resolve charging issues.
  • Check the iPad’s Temperature: If your iPad is very hot, it may stop charging to protect itself. Let it cool down and try charging again.
  • Check for Software Issues: Make sure your iPad is running the latest version of iOS.
  • Hardware Issues: If the problem persists, there may be a hardware issue with the charging port or battery. Contact Apple Support or take your iPad to an authorized service provider.

Apple Pencil Problems

If your Apple Pencil isn’t working, try these steps:

  • Check the Battery: Make sure your Apple Pencil is charged.
  • Pair the Apple Pencil: Make sure your Apple Pencil is paired with your iPad.
  • Check the Tip: Make sure the Apple Pencil tip is properly installed and not damaged.
  • Clean the iPad Screen: Make sure your iPad screen is clean and free of debris.
  • Restart Your iPad: A restart can often resolve Apple Pencil issues.
  • Update iOS: Make sure you’re running the latest version of iOS.
  • Contact Apple Support: If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.

Final Verdict

Troubleshooting iPad issues can feel overwhelming, but remember that most problems have simple solutions. By understanding the common causes of performance, battery, connectivity, display, audio, and app issues, you’re well-equipped to diagnose and fix them. From simple restarts and software updates to managing storage and checking hardware, this guide has provided you with the tools and knowledge you need.

🔥 Read More:

Regular maintenance, such as keeping your iOS updated, managing storage space, and monitoring battery health, can help prevent many of these problems in the first place. Don’t hesitate to consult Apple Support or an authorized service provider if you’re facing persistent or complex issues. By taking the time to troubleshoot and care for your iPad, you can ensure it continues to provide a smooth and enjoyable user experience for years to come. Now, go forth and conquer those iPad glitches!

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