10 Ways to Use an iPad at Your Next Trade Show or Event

1. Digital Event Check-In

First impressions matter. Set the tone with a smooth, digital check-in experience. iPads can be integrated with QR code or NFC scanning to offer contactless or self-service check-in. This reduces wait times and helps manage attendee flow while creating a modern and professional welcome.

• Streamlined entry process – Speeds up check-ins and reduces queues.

• Contactless experience – Safer and more hygienic for attendees.

• Professional first impression – Modern setup that enhances your brand image.

• Real-time attendee tracking – Easily monitor arrivals and attendee flow.

• Custom branding – Personalise the check-in interface with your logo and colours.

2. Lead Capture Station

Collecting attendee data is essential at any event, and iPads simplify the process. With lead capture apps like iCapture or QuickTapSurvey, you can gather contact information, segment leads by interest, and instantly sync data with your CRM. No more lost business cards or messy handwriting.

• Instant Digital Forms
  Quickly collect attendee information through user-friendly forms designed specifically for events.

• Lead Qualification Tags
  Segment leads based on interest level, industry, or buying intent for easier follow-up.

• Real-Time CRM Syncing
  Automatically push captured data to your CRM or email marketing platform without manual entry.

• Offline Data Collection
  Continue collecting leads even without an internet connection—sync later when online.

• Branded User Interface
  Customise the iPad screen with your logo, colours, and messaging for a seamless brand experience.

3. Interactive Product Demos

Whether you’re showcasing software, a physical product, or a service, iPads make it easy to deliver interactive demos. Display videos, slideshows, 3D models, or tap-to-navigate interfaces that allow attendees to explore your product hands-on. It’s immersive and memorable.

• High-Quality Video Playback
  Showcase product explainer videos or customer testimonials to educate and inspire.

• Tap-to-Navigate Interfaces
  Let attendees browse through features, benefits, or pricing at their own pace.

• 3D Model Viewing
  Use AR or 3D rendering apps to display product designs or prototypes in a lifelike, interactive format.

• Slide Decks & Presentations
  Present key information in visually compelling slides, easily controlled by staff or attendees.

• Engaging Touch-Based Interaction
  Encourage hands-on learning and exploration, making demos more memorable and personalised.

4. Customised Surveys & Feedback

iPads are a fantastic tool for gathering real-time feedback. Set up short surveys or polls at your booth to learn what visitors think of your products or sessions. Not only does this provide valuable insights, but it also makes your audience feel heard.

• Quick Survey Setups
  Create feedback forms for sessions, demos, or overall event experience.

• Real-Time Data Collection
  View results instantly and analyse trends during the event.

• User-Friendly Interface
  Easy-to-navigate surveys increase completion rates.

• Incentive-Based Engagement
  Offer digital vouchers or giveaways in exchange for completing surveys.

• Post-Session Metrics
  Measure speaker performance or product interest for internal review.

5. Event Schedule Displays

Keep attendees informed and organised with iPads displaying event schedules, speaker bios, venue maps, and exhibitor details. Mounted at kiosks or counters, these digital schedules can be updated instantly—no reprinting required.

• Live Agenda Updates
  Instantly update session times, locations, or speakers without printing new materials.

• Interactive Venue Maps
  Help guests find rooms, booths, or amenities with touch-based navigation.

• Speaker Bios & Session Details
  Provide in-depth info right at attendees’ fingertips.

• Kiosk or Tabletop Display Options
  Mount iPads at key points like registration or lounge areas.

• Eco-Friendly Solution
  Cut down on printed schedules and reduce paper waste.

6. Digital Brochures & Catalogues

Forget stacks of printed brochures. Load your marketing material onto an iPad to create a digital product catalogue. This eco-friendly solution allows attendees to swipe through product pages, view images, and even email themselves a copy—all with a few taps.

• Interactive Product Catalogues
  Let attendees swipe through features, specs, and pricing in an organised layout.

• Brochure Downloads
  Allow users to email brochures or save them to their device instantly.

• Environmentally Conscious Display
  Reduce your print costs and carbon footprint.

• Easy Updates
  Instantly revise content if there are pricing or product changes.

• Compact, Clutter-Free Setup
  Eliminate the need for piles of paper at your booth.

7. Social Media Engagement Station

Boost your event’s online visibility with a social media sharing station. Encourage attendees to take selfies, enter contests, or share hashtags using a designated iPad. Set up a branded photo booth experience or giveaway to drive participation and virality.

• Photo Booth Apps
  Let attendees take branded selfies or team photos for instant posting.

• Hashtag Campaign Integration
  Promote your custom hashtag for real-time event exposure.

• Contest Entries & Voting
  Collect entries for giveaways or allow social voting via iPad.

• Live Feed Display Options
  Showcase attendee posts and stories on nearby screens.

• Tag and Share Prompts
  Encourage visitors to tag your brand to increase visibility.

8. Mobile POS for On-Site Sales

Selling products or services at your booth? Turn your iPad into a mobile point-of-sale system by pairing it with card readers like Square or Zettle. Accept payments, issue digital receipts, and track inventory all in one sleek setup.

• Card Reader Integration
  Accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments via iPad-compatible devices.

• Fast Checkout Process
  Reduce wait times with seamless mobile transactions.

• Digital Receipts
  Email receipts on the spot for better customer convenience.

• Inventory Tracking
  Monitor stock levels directly through POS apps.

• Secure Transactions
  Keep payment data protected with encrypted processing.

9. Virtual Reality or AR Experiences

Create a buzz with immersive tech. With the right apps, iPads can deliver compelling augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) experiences. Show off products in 3D, simulate real-world use cases, or create games and interactions that attract crowds.

• AR Product Walkthroughs
  Use the iPad camera and AR apps to show 3D models in real space.

• Virtual Tours
  Let guests explore properties, facilities, or simulations in a digital setting.

• Gamified Interactions
  Engage attendees through branded AR games or challenges.

• Headset-Free Experience
  Provide immersive content without the need for bulky VR gear.

• Innovative Brand Perception
  Showcase your company as forward-thinking and tech-savvy.

10. Live Presentations & Staff Training

Use iPads behind the scenes too. Equip your event staff with preloaded content, training materials, or schedules to keep everyone aligned. You can also use iPads to control slide decks, monitor social media, or coordinate logistics in real-time.

• Presentation Control
  Use iPads to control slides, media, and lighting during demos.

• Onboarding Materials
  Provide schedules, FAQs, and staff instructions in digital format.

• Internal Communications
  Share updates or alerts to staff across different iPads instantly.

• Live Polling & Q&A Tools
  Engage attendees during talks with interactive participation.

• Product Knowledge Hub
  Equip team members with instant access to product details and sales scripts.

Why iPads Are a Must-Have at Events

Lightweight, powerful, and easy to set up, iPads adapt to almost any event need—from front-line engagement to backend support. Their intuitive interface means minimal training is required, and they integrate smoothly with countless event platforms and accessories.

If you want your booth or activation to stand out, investing in iPads (or renting them) is a smart move that adds polish and professionalism.

Rent iPads for Your Next Event

Need iPads preloaded with event apps, mounted on stands, or bundled with accessories? At Technology Rental, we offer hassle-free iPad rental solutions tailored to trade shows, conferences, and live events.

Whether you’re planning a product launch, industry expo, or networking event, our team can help you create a seamless tech experience that drives engagement and results.

Get in touch today and let’s bring your event to life—one iPad at a time.