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How to Update an Old iPad

by Suzanne Kantra on September 20, 2024

While most iPads can be upgraded to the latest operating system, iPadOS 18, some are stuck at an earlier generation of the operating system. Apple leaves devices behind when they don't have the hardware that's necessary to smoothly run the new operating system. This year, it's the iPad 6th gen (released in 2018) and the iPad Pro 10.5" (released in 2017). 

Screenshot of Apple logo with a bar showing the progress of an iPadOS update.

Consult the chart below to find out the latest version of iOS or iPadOS that your tablet supports. To identify which iPad model you own, turn it over, and you will find it printed in very small type on the back under the iPad logo. You can also go to Settings > General > About. There you will find the "Model Name" and "Model Number." The model number is a letter followed by four numbers. If you see a slash in a string of characters (for example, MY3K2LL/A), you're looking at the part number. Tap it to reveal the model number.

Have an old iPhone? Check out our story on how to update an old iPhone.

The Latest Version of iOS or iPadOS by iPad Model

Devices

Latest Version of iOS or iPadOS

iPad - 1st generation (2010), Model numbers A1219, A1337 iOS 5.1.1
iPad 2 - 2nd generation (2011), Model numbers A1395, A1396, A1397
iPad - 3rd generation (early 2012), Model numbers A1403, A1430, A1416

iPad mini - 1st generation (2012), Model numbers A1432, A1454, A1455
iOS 9.3.5 for WiFi only models
iOS 9.3.6 for WiFi + cellular models
iPad with Retina Display - 4th generation (2012), Model numbers A1458, A1459, A1460 iOS 10.3.4
iPad mini 2 - 2nd generation (2013), Model numbers A1489, A1490, A1491
iPad mini 3 - 3rd generation (2014), Model numbers A1599, A1600

iPad Air - 1st generation (2013), Model numbers A1474, A1475, A1476
iOS 12.5.7
iPad mini 4 - 4th generation (2015), Model numbers A1550, A1538

iPad Air 2 - (2014), Model numbers A1566, A1567
iPadOS 15.8.3
iPad - 5th generation (2017), Model numbers A1822, A1823

iPad Pro 12.9" - 1st generation 2015), Model numbers A1584, A1652
iPad Pro 9.7" - 1st generation (2016), Model numbers A1673, A1674, A1675
iPadOS 16.7.10
iPad - 6th generation (2018), Model numbers A1893, A1954
iPad Pro 10.5" - 1st generation (2017), Model numbers A1701, A1709
iPadOS 17.7
iPad - 7th generation (2019), Model numbers A2197, A2198, A2200
iPad - 8th generation (2020), Model numbers A2270, A2428, A2429, A2430
iPad - 9th generation (2021), Model numbers A2602, A2604, A2603, A2605
iPad - 10th generation (2022), Model numbers A2696, A2757, A2777

iPad mini - 5th generation (2019), Model numbers A2124, A2126, A2133
iPad mini - 6th generation (2021), Model numbers A2567, A2568, A2569

iPad Air - 3rd generation (2019), Model numbers A2152, A2123, A2153
iPad Air - 4th generation (2020), Model numbers A2316, A2324, A2325, A2072
iPad Air - 5th generation (2022), Model numbers A2588, A2589
iPad Air 11-inch (M2) (2024), Model numbers A2902, A2903, A2904
iPad Air 13-inch (M2) (2024), Model numbers A2898, A2899, A2900

iPad Pro 12.9" - 2nd generation (2017), Model numbers A1670, A1671
iPad Pro 11" - 1st generation (2018), Model numbers A1980, A2013, A1934
iPad Pro 12.9" - 3rd generation (2018), Model numbers A1876, A2014, A1895
iPad Pro 11" - 2nd generation (2020), Model numbers A2228, A2068, A2230
iPad Pro 12.9" - 4th generation (2020), Model numbers A2229, A2069, A2232
iPad Pro 11" - 3rd generation (2021), Model numbers A2377, A2459, A2460
iPad Pro 12.9"- 5th generation (2021), Model numbers A2378, A2461, A2462
iPad Pro 11" - 4th generation (2022), Model numbers A2759, A2435, A2761, A2762
iPad Pro 12.9" - 6th generation (2022), Model numbers A2436, A2764, A2437, A2766
iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) (2024), Mode lnumbers A2836, A2837, A3006
iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) (2024), Mode lnumbers A2925, A2926, A3007
 
iPadOS 18

How to update an old iPad

There are two ways to update your old iPad. You can update it wirelessly over WiFi or connect it to a computer and use the iTunes app.

How to update an old iPad wirelessly

Back up your iPad

Make sure your iPad is connected to WiFi, and then go to Settings > Apple ID [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Make sure iCloud Backup is turned on and select "Back Up Now." You'll receive a confirmation when the backup is complete.

Check for and install the latest iPadOS

To check for the latest software, go to Settings > General > Software Update. Your iPad will then check for a software update. On the screen, you'll either see your current version of iOS or iPad OS and the message "Your software is up to date," or if your software is not up to date, you'll see the option to "Download and Install."

How to update an old iPad using your computer

Back up your iPad

Connect your iPad to your computer with your Lightning or USB-C cable. (You may see a message asking for your iPad passcode or for you to "Trust This Computer." Follow the directions.)

On a Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later, open Finder. Select your iPad, select "General," and select "Back up all of the data on your iPad to this Mac."

On a Mac with macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier, or on a PC, launch iTunes. Locate your iPad in iTunes and click on it. You'll then see an option to "Back Up Now." Click on the "Back Up Now" button, and you'll receive a confirmation when the backup is complete.

Check for and install the latest iPadOS

On a Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later, open Finder. Select your iPad, select "General," and select "Check for Update." If there is an update available, select "Update."

On a Mac with macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier, or on a PC, open iTunes. Then, connect your device to your computer. Locate your device on your computer. Click "General" or "Settings," then click "Check for Update." Click "Download and Update." You may be asked to enter your passcode.

Updated on 9/20/2024 with new model number information and iPadOS 18 compatibility.

[Image credit: iPad updating via BigStockPhoto]

For the past 20+ years, Suzanne Kantra has been exploring and writing about the world’s most exciting and important science and technology issues. Ten years ago, she founded Techlicious, which serves the role of that tech-savvy friend you can count on to share tips and tricks to get the most out of technology; whether that’s saving time in our hectic schedules, discovering new ways to enjoy our personal interests, or keeping up with the latest technology trends and styles. Before that, Suzanne was the Technology Editor for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, where she hosted the radio show “Living with Technology." Previously, she served as Technology Editor for Popular Science Magazine. She has been featured on CNN, CBS, and NBC.


Topics

Tips & How-Tos, Computers and Software, Tablets & eReaders, Mobile Apps, iPhone/iPad Apps


Discussion loading

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From Moumouh on December 29, 2020 :: 10:37 am


What can i do with my tab iPad 5.1.1

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From Josh Kirschner on December 30, 2020 :: 1:35 pm


I have a 1st gen iPad running 5.1.1, also. Here’s what I found it to be most useful for.
1. Propping open the door when I’m carry large objects.
2. Use as a hot mat on my dining room table.
3. Placed over belly, can help prevent stab wounds during sword fights.
4. Use to impress people in bars and cafes. When they ask what it is, tell them it’s a secret prototype of the newest iPad Apple gave you to test out, then quickly hide in your bag (don’t let them actually see you try to use it).
5. Create an in Instagram page for your iPad and post photos of it posed in various exotic locations around the world (you will have to use a new iPad to actually take the photos and load to Instagram).

Would love other suggestions.

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From Ernie on August 22, 2021 :: 11:04 am


I know this is an old post, but i’ll add my comment. I purchased a 1st generation iPad from Goodwill. It still has its uses. I found some old apps in the Apple app store and got the iPad charged. I can read ebooks, read comic books, listen to music (mp3 format) and watch movies or tv shows (mp4 format). Also, Bluetooth works with my Bluetooth speaker so i use it as a stereo. Notes and Calendar work fine. So a 1st generation iPad can still be used for something.

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From Ernie on August 22, 2021 :: 12:33 pm


One other note. My 1st generation iPad’s battery still charges well and holds its charge for several days. In my opinion, that is very impressive. I would like to end by saying a big f#*& you to Apple for being such a greedy and unfair company. Thanks to their greed, all these older, yet good devices have been left out for future updates and newer apps. Apple as a company truly sucks.

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From Riki Newton on November 25, 2021 :: 10:58 pm


Hi, love how patient you are with folks who just don’t get how Apple works with it’s extremely irritating obsolescence policy. Bless you for your kind heart ❀
Some more ‘uses’ for obsolete ipads,
Add cat litter and let your cat poo and pee all over it.
Let the kids use it as a snow board or surf board.
Use as hot πŸ”₯ or rather luke warm water bottle.
As a paperweight for very large books πŸ“š
As a cumbersome drinks tray..
A dustbin filler..
Cheers and thank you Josh πŸ™πŸ‘πŸ˜˜

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From Mercy on December 30, 2020 :: 5:00 pm


Hi can I uprade iPad 4.3.5(BL1) model MC981SO to a better model

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From Marcela on January 07, 2021 :: 2:58 pm


Hi, it is possible update my mini iPad version 9.3.6. ?

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From Kathiravan on January 09, 2021 :: 10:16 am


Sir, my io9.3.5

How to updated for latest version…. Plz.. Reply me

Mobile…9962585033

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From Kathiravan on January 09, 2021 :: 10:21 am


Kindly solve the problem

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From Riki Newton on November 25, 2021 :: 11:15 pm


Simply use your obsolete ipad as a handy doorstop - then go to your nearest Apple 🍎 store πŸ˜€ πŸ‘ and give them a big chunk of notes for a new one !! Any alternatives ? You betcha there ain’t. Cheers ✌ 🍻

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From Carolyn Buser on January 15, 2021 :: 7:10 pm


How do I know what version i-pad I have and whether I can update it to ios 10?

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From Suzanne Kantra on January 18, 2021 :: 6:05 pm


You can look on the back of your iPad to find the model number. You can also find it by going into Settings > About and consult the Model Number.

Once you find the model number, you can consult the chart in this story to see which model of iPad you own and whether it can be updated to iOS 10.

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From Kimberly McIntyre on April 27, 2021 :: 10:37 am


Version 5.1.1 Model#MC349LL

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From Carolyn Buser on January 15, 2021 :: 7:12 pm


How do I connect my I-pad to my desktop computer?

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From Suzanne Kantra on January 18, 2021 :: 6:18 pm


To connect your iPad to your computer, use the cable that you use to charge your iPad and insert the USB side (the end you usually plug into your charging brick) into your computer’s USB port.

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From Donna Bowen on February 10, 2021 :: 2:54 pm


Thank you for all the info on this thread. Our daughter gave my husband her old Ipad Version 7.1.1(11D201) Model MD787LL/A, but we are having a bit of struggle updating. I know I have to connect the cable to my new Mac laptop to connect w/Itunes for the upgrade to Ipad, but get stuck after that. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

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From Lou on January 19, 2021 :: 7:11 pm


I got an mini 9.3.5 or woteva fixed cost enough,  for my 5yr old at xmas.  it’s another device the developer has scrapped in a bid to make money!

My question is what do I now do with it now? can I trade it in or is it practically worthless ??

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From Josh Kirschner on January 20, 2021 :: 2:46 pm


If you just bought an old iPad mini, I would return it, if possible. You can trade it in for the purchase of a new iPad - assuming it’s in good working order, you’ll get around $35 in trade-in value for it with Apple.

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From Sam on January 20, 2021 :: 10:13 am


The ipad2

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From David J. on January 22, 2021 :: 11:12 pm


I have an iPad Pro 10.5 and it says my software is up to date, but it is iOS 11.2.1.  I thought we were at iOS 14.  Why wouldn’t these be available for me.

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From AHMED on January 23, 2021 :: 5:48 am


My I pad mini 4 is not updating from 9.3.5 ,I can not install some apps in it.what to do for update?

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From Md Liton on January 25, 2021 :: 5:26 am


Model 1387 Vison 9.3.6

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From A sheep on January 25, 2021 :: 12:07 pm


I have a IPad 1 2010 and I know it won’t run smoothly but can I use some sort have hack to get it to a later IOS cause it’s stuck a 5.1.1 and useless.

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From Can i on January 26, 2021 :: 12:12 pm


Can I update my iPad Air in 13.0?

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From Josh Kirschner on January 28, 2021 :: 9:50 am


It depends on what generation iPad Air you have. Read the chart in the article.

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From Linda Neely on January 26, 2021 :: 2:26 pm


I read books on my iPad and have a lot of them. I am 72 so not iPad savvy but 10.3 is not compatible with some of the newer book downloads. Seems to need the newer 12 version but can that be done? I can not afford on social security to go out and spend so much for a new iPad. Reading keeps me sane. What can I do?

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From Josh Kirschner on January 28, 2021 :: 9:55 am


There are multiple places that will allow you to download ebooks, some of which may work better for you than iTunes as far as older device support. Try Amazon or Barnes & Noble and see if that helps - note that you can download ebooks from the web if you can’t get compatible apps for your iPad.

We also have an article on places where you can download free ebooks, which would be perfect for people who have limited income.

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From Bob Burns on July 29, 2021 :: 10:52 am


To Linda Newley…

Me, too. I’m stuck with an iPad which only can handle OS 10.3 and cannot operate websites I actually bought the darn iPad for…such as th NY Times and Washinge on Post.

I’m frustrated with Apple Computer as a megalith from which there is no real alternative. This scheme of theirs is out and out planned obsolescence.

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From Nigel Bratten on January 29, 2021 :: 1:12 am


My iPad is too old to update beyond iOS. 12.4.8
Does this mean that it is vulnerable to hackers and is no longer secure( with specific reference to the latest issues fixed by iOS 14.4)
Thanks

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From Marilyn Chantler on January 29, 2021 :: 3:55 pm


My old ipad running iOS 9..35 has all my family photos on, i was paying for apple space, but my bank card was renewed with a new number in December 2020 and now i cant get my password to work at all. I’ve got a new ipad now but have had to register a new Apple ID . Is there a way to get my photos of of the old ipad. Many thanks
There’s about 2000 photos so too many to email etc

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From Brian Gallaher on February 01, 2021 :: 1:08 pm


Can you describe some of the risks if I don’t upgrade my IPad A1474 to the latest OS 14.4. I think I am now running 12.5??

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From Suzanne Kantra on February 10, 2021 :: 10:18 pm


The latest release for your device is iOS 12.5.1.
Even after Apple stops supporting updates to the next-gen operating system, the company does still publish security patches, as you can see in their security update post https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201222

That said, it’s always safer to use a device that is actively being updated.

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From Pumm on February 03, 2021 :: 10:54 am


It is absolutely ridiculous that Apple have not found a way to offer upgrades for hardware & software for otherwise perfectly useable devices.  The reason that they don’t do this is because we continue to spend our hard earned money to line their pockets!  If we stop buying their expensive upgrades then they would need to come up with an alternative solution.

Apple - there are millions of devices that need just a little bit of TLC & millions of people out of work during this global pandemic & they can’t afford a shiny new device; not to mention the millions of children & parents attempting to keep their education going. Now is the time to step up Apple; now is the time to give back to Mother Earth & now is the time to help humanity! What are you going to do Apple?

Apple - you announced your most profitable quarter EVER (during a global pandemic & recession) . As of 26th December 2020 you made $111.4bn in the last quarter alone!  No wonder the chief executive Tim Cook was “gratified by the enthusiastic customer response”. How was your Chrismas lockdown Tim Cook?

Apple - on behalf of all the teachers, parents, self employed & unemployed - what are you going to do to help us ?

I look forward to a response.

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From brian smith on May 31, 2021 :: 5:18 am


I totally agree with the posting to Boycott Apple and I just wonder why the internet is not organised to do just that together with other similar companies that are damaging our beautiful planet and making life even more difficult for those with very little compared to the rest of us. Perfectly good technology being made redundant and just adding to the mountains of scrap in the name of economics, business and profit.

I did try contacting apple but guess what, my ipad would not work on their websites presumably so that we can not complain. I did amazingly get them to ring me and a very pleasant man went through a number of things to try and solve my ipad problems. No mention that the problems are created by the computer industry and they are not prepared to solve them. Just left me with the message that my ipad was an antique and I should buy a new one. I for one will not be encouraging this behaviour.

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From Susmita Nepal on February 06, 2021 :: 11:59 pm


I have iPhone 6s plus and is stuck to 11.3.1.How can I update it to later software.I can see ios update 14.5 in software which is not supported in my ios.So how can I update to ios 12.2 software without desktop.I cannot install many of my productive app.

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From Susmita Nepal on February 07, 2021 :: 12:02 am


How can an iPhone 6splus be upgraded to ios software12 if not shown insoftware update?

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From Suzanne Kantra on February 10, 2021 :: 10:11 pm


An iPhone 6s Plus should update to iOS 14. If you’re having trouble updating, check to see that you have enough memory for a wireless update. It may be easiest to install iTunes on a computer and update your phone via iTunes. Using iTunes on your computer means that the download will go to your computer instead of your device, so your device doesn’t need as much available storage to update.

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From layne on February 07, 2021 :: 12:53 pm


Hi i was wondering if it was possible to update my ipad 4th gen to its last update even tho its updates havent been kept up to date.  I go to software updates in the settings and the update that shows is IOS 8.4.1 and when i click download and install nothing happens so is there something i can do to get updated?

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From Suzanne Kantra on February 10, 2021 :: 10:08 pm


Have you tried connecting it to your computer and using iTunes to update to the latest iOS? If your device doesn’t have enough memory, it won’t update.

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From Andy on February 10, 2021 :: 6:59 pm


Apple is kidding us all. They should give us the choice and let us decide whether to run the iPad with the old OS or get the update at our risk.
I do no longer buy Apple devices. Yes, my old iPad mini has a high quality battery that is still working for hours - that’s awesome. But because of their rigid marketing strategy and an idiotic update policy they brick my device. Meanwhile I do really hate Apple. No other company despises and patronizes its customers as much as apple does. Sorry Apple, f… you. Sorry for the rant. But I know so many people think the way I do.

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From Tommy on February 12, 2021 :: 4:24 pm


My IPad Air IOS is 12.5.1 Would I be able to upgrade?

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From Josh Kirschner on February 15, 2021 :: 4:32 pm


It depends on what model iPad Air you have - 1st gen? 2nd gen? Check the chart in the article, it lays out pretty clearly what the latest iOS version is for each iPad model.

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From Wayne Ketaru on February 18, 2021 :: 9:19 pm


Hi, I know that my old iPhone 5 and iPad Mini 2 can run on only up to ISO 12.5.1.  I have just bought iPad Mini 5 to run a specific App that can run only on ISO13 or higher.  I still want to keep my iPhone and iPad mini2 (on ISO12.5.1) but can I update my iPad Mini 5 to ISO 13 or 14 while my old iPhone and iPad mini still run on ISO 12.5.1?

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From Suzanne Kantra on February 19, 2021 :: 1:04 pm


Yes, you can and should update your iPad Mini 5 to the latest iPadOS available.

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From Wayne Ketaru on February 19, 2021 :: 1:14 pm


Thanks for your help.

Kind regards,

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From Jen on February 25, 2021 :: 7:24 pm


If I want to know how to update my really old I pad telling me to check for an update isn’t going to do it. Do u think I’m stupid???

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From Josh Kirschner on February 26, 2021 :: 11:42 am


Telling you to check for an update isn’t helpful, but telling you what the latest OS version is for each model of iPad so you don’t waste your time trying to find an update for an iPad that can’t be updated is helpful. And that is what this article is about.

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From Bob on April 02, 2021 :: 4:52 pm


Nor is your reply. The problem is the title of the article. It should leave the word “old” out of it at least. It would be better to rename it to some more relevant title as the implication is an “old” iPad can be updated. If an iPad can no longer be updated, then it is “old”. Just because it is a previous model that can be updated, doesn’t mean it is old. The problem is far more reaching than just updating to the next release, it is when they make changes where the apps no longer work and have to be updated has to be considered too. For instance, an iPad still on 9.3.5 can no longer update most apps it may have installed. The iPad is still perfectly good and has a lot of life left, no reason for Apple to force incompatible changes that force app writers to rewrite their apps.

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From Charles Wood on March 02, 2021 :: 4:52 pm


I was having problems rejuvenating an Ipad Air 2.  The usual way of updating from the Ipad didn’t seem to work so I found this article, and downloaded Itunes on my PC, then updated it from Itunes.  Now I have Ipad OS 14.4 on my 7 year old Ipad Air 2.

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From Ipad 2 User on March 02, 2021 :: 8:43 pm


Just another Click Bait on owners of older ipads, long forgotten by Apple who does not old customers and wants to force them to buy new devices. This “article” bait offers NO SOLUTION at all.

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