3 Simple Ways to Update iOS Software on an iPad

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Get the latest Apple software update for iPadOS
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Are you trying to get the latest iOS update on your iPad? If you want to update, you'll just need to make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi. If you're unable to update, you can try updating using the Finder or iTunes. Here's how to update iOS software on an iPad using the Settings, a Mac, or a Windows computer.

Starting an iPad Software Update

To update your iPad over Wi-Fi, open Settings > General > Software Update . If you can't get the latest iOS update, connect your iPad to your computer and use the Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) to download and install the update.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Using Settings

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  1. Use the charging cable that came with your iPad to connect to a power outlet or desktop computer. Your iPad update may be paused if you have insufficient battery.
    • While updating the iOS doesn't usually cause a loss of data, it's best to backup your device just in case.
  2. If you aren't already connected to Wi-Fi, do so now. Larger iOS updates require your iPad to be connected to a Wi-Fi network in order to download.
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  3. This is the cog icon.
  4. You can find this below Screen Time .
  5. It's near the top of the page.
  6. You'll see this button if there's an update available.
    • You may also see Download and Install .
  7. Once you've entered the passcode, the download will start. The update may take some time to complete. [1]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Using Mac

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  1. Use the wire that came with your device. This may be USB-C to USB-C or Lightning to USB.
    • Make sure your computer is connected to Wi-Fi and that your iPad files are backed up.
    • If you're running macOS Mojave or earlier, you'll need to use iTunes instead. [2]
  2. Open the Finder . You can find this on the Dock.
  3. This will be in the sidebar, under Locations .
    • If you don't see your device, look on your iPad for a Trust this computer? prompt. If you see this, tap Trust .
    • You may need to enter the passcode on your iPad.
  4. This is the tab underneath your iPad's name. You may already be on this tab.
  5. It'll take a few moments for the Finder to check.
  6. This will start the installation process.
    • You may be asked to enter your iPad's passcode again.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your download.
    • When the download is finished, your iPad should restart.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using Windows

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  1. In order to download update software for your iPad, iTunes must be running the latest version available . [3]
  2. Use the wire that came with your device. This may be USB-C to USB-C or Lightning to USB.
    • Make sure your computer is connected to Wi-Fi and that your iPad files are backed up.
    • If iTunes doesn't launch automatically, open the iTunes app on your computer.
  3. You can find this in the toolbar at the top. This will open the device page.
    • If you don't see your device, look on your iPad for a Trust this computer? prompt. If you see this, tap Trust .
    • You may need to enter the passcode on your iPad.
  4. This is in the left panel.
  5. You can find this in the top section.
  6. This will start the installation process.
    • You may be asked to enter your iPad's passcode again.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your download.
    • When the download is finished, your iPad should restart.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Can you use a PC to update an iPad via iTunes?
    Community Answer
    Yes you can. All you need to do is connect your device to with a USB cable to the PC and open up iTunes. When you've connected it, iTunes should instantly detect the device and an iOS software update option should appear.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 15
  • Question
    I have an iPad with iOS 5.1.1. When I go to "General - Software Update," it says software is up to date and doesn't give me an option to upgrade to a higher version. How do I upgrade my iPad?
    Community Answer
    Your iPad is not compatible with newer versions of iOS because its hardware is too primitive.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 34 Helpful 72
  • Question
    Does this method also work with an iPhone?
    Community Answer
    Yes, as long as your device can support the iOS you're trying to download.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 10
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      References

      1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/118575
      2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/109046
      3. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/108964

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Updating your iPad wirelessly is the easiest way to install the latest version of iPadOS. Keeping your iPad's software up to date ensures that you always have the latest features, security updates, and bug fixes. Before you start the update, back your iPad up to iCloud or to your computer just in case you run into trouble. Then, connect your iPad to a power source, such as a wall outlet or a computer. If you're not already connected to a wireless network, you'll need to do that, too—swipe down from the top-right corner of the home screen to open Control Center, and if the Wi-Fi icon isn't blue, tap it to connect, or tap-and-hold it to select a network. Next, open the Settings app, which is the gray gear icon on your home screen or in the App Library. Then, tap the "General" tab, and select "Software Update" in the right panel. If an update is available, tap "Download and Install" – if you don't see this option, you're already using the latest version of iPadOS. If an update *is* available, review the terms and tap "Install" to confirm. Or, if you'd rather schedule the update so it happens overnight, you can tap "Install Tonight" instead—just make sure you plug your iPad in before you go to bed, and that it's connected to Wi-Fi. After selecting an option, enter your passcode if prompted. If you're installing the update now, your iPad will reboot and begin to update. The update can take anywhere from several minutes to an hour or so. When the update is complete, your iPad will reboot again and bring you back to the home screen.

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