How to Update an Old iPad

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While many newer iPads can be upgraded to the latest operating system, iPadOS 27, older models are limited to earlier versions. The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad (8th generation), and iPad mini (5th generation) cannot upgrade to iPadOS 27. These models can run iPadOS 26.

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, go to Settings > General > About. There you will find the “Model Name” and “Model Number.” The model number begins with an A followed by four digits. If you see a string of characters with a slash, such as MY3K2LL/A, you’re looking at the part number. Tap it to reveal the model number. On older iPads, you can also find the model number printed in very small type on the back.

The Latest Version of iOS or iPadOS by iPad Model

How to update an old iPad

You can update your iPad wirelessly over Wi-Fi or connect it to a computer and use Finder, Apple Devices, or iTunes, depending on your computer. Either method installs an update compatible with your iPad; using a computer won’t let you install an operating system your model doesn’t support.

How to update an old iPad wirelessly

Step 1. Back up your iPad

Connect your iPad to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Make sure iCloud Backup is turned on and select “Back Up Now.”

Stay connected to Wi-Fi until the backup finishes. Check the date and time of the last successful backup under “Back Up Now” to confirm it completed.

Step 2. Check for and install the latest iPadOS

Plug your iPad into a power source and keep it connected to Wi-Fi during installation. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Your iPad will check for an update and show the currently installed version of iOS or iPadOS.

If an update is available, select “Download and Install” or “Update Now,” depending on whether it has already downloaded, and follow the onscreen instructions. If no update is available, you’ll see a message that your software is up to date.

How to update an old iPad using your computer

Step 1. Back up your iPad

First, connect your iPad to your computer using the appropriate USB-C, Lightning, or 30-pin cable for your model. If you see a message asking for your iPad passcode or asking you to “Trust This Computer,” follow the prompts.

Then back up using the prompts appropriate for your operating system. Wait for the backup to finish before updating.

• macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: open Finder and select your iPad in the sidebar. Select “General,” then select “Back up all of the data on your iPad to this Mac.” Click “Back Up Now”.
• macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier: open iTunes and click the iPad button in the toolbar. Select “Summary,” then click “Back Up Now”.
• Windows 11: open the Apple Devices app and select your iPad in the sidebar. Select “General,” then select “Back up all of the data on your iPad to this computer.” Click “Back Up Now”.
• If you’re using iTunes on Windows instead of Apple Devices, click the iPad button in the iTunes toolbar, select “Summary,” then click “Back Up Now”.

Step 2. Check for and install the latest iPadOS

Check whether an update is available for your iPad:

• macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: open Finder and select your iPad in the sidebar. Select “General,” then click “Check for Update.”
• macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier: open iTunes and click the iPad button in the toolbar. Select “Summary,” then click “Check for Update.”
• Windows 11: open the Apple Devices app and select your iPad in the sidebar. Select “General,” then click “Check for Update.”
• If you’re using iTunes on Windows instead of Apple Devices, click the iPad button in the iTunes toolbar, select “Summary,” then click “Check for Update.”

If an update is available, click “Download and Update” and follow the onscreen instructions.

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

Updated on October 8, 2026, with iPadOS 27 compatibility information and current instructions for updating and backing up your iPad.

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