iPadOS Compatibility Chart: Max Supported OS For Each iPad

Ken Granger

iPadOS

The most recent iPadOS version released by Apple is iPadOS 17. It is expected that iPadOS 18 will be released to the public in September 2024. Not all iPad models are compatible with every iPadOS update, so it’s important for users to check if their device is supported. Apple provides a list of compatible devices for each software release, and iPadOS 17 is no exception. The compatibility depends on the device’s hardware capabilities to handle the new features.

Users should verify their iPad model against the compatibility chart to confirm if they can update to iPadOS 17. This update is significant as it brings numerous improvements to the user experience. Supported devices include specific models of iPad mini, iPad Air, iPad, and various generations of iPad Pro. The update is designed to operate smoothly without causing a decrease in the device’s performance.

iPadOS Compatibility Chart (By Device)

DeviceReleasedOriginal iPadOSMax iPadOS
iPad (gen 11)2024*1818
iPad Mini (gen 7)2024*1818
iPad Pro M4 (gen 7)20241718
iPad Air M2 (gen 6)20241718
iPad Pro 12.9″ (gen 6)20221618
iPad Pro 11″ (gen 4)20221618
iPad (gen 10)20221618
iPad Air (gen 5)20221518
iPad (gen 9)20211518
iPad mini (gen 6)20211518
iPad Pro 12.9″ (gen 5)20211418
iPad Pro 11″ (gen 3)20211418
iPad Air (gen 4)20201418
iPad (gen 8)20201418
iPad Pro 12.9″ (gen 4)20201318
iPad Pro 11″ (gen 2)20201318
iPad (gen 7)20191318
iPad Air (gen 3)20191218
iPad mini (gen 5)20191218
iPad Pro 12.9″ (gen 3)20181218
iPad Pro 11″ (gen 1)20181218
iPad (gen 6)20181117
iPad Pro 12.9″ (gen 2)20171017
iPad Pro 10.5″20171017
iPad (gen 5)20171016
iPad Pro 9.7″ 2016916
iPad Pro 12.9″ (gen 1) 2015916
iPad mini 42015915
iPad Air 2 2014815
iPad mini 3 2014812
iPad mini 2 2013712
iPad Air (gen 1) 2013712
iPad (gen 4) 2012610
iPad mini (gen 1) 201269
iPad (gen 3) 201259
iPad 2 201149
iPad (gen 1) 201035
*Anticipated release dates. The iPadOS naming convention started in 2019. New launches may release on iPadOS 18

iPadOS Compatibility Chart (By iPadOS Version)

iPadOS VersionCompatible iPad ModelsNotes
iPadOS 17iPad mini (5th and 6th generation), iPad (6th – 10th generation), iPad Air (3rd – 5th generation), iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad Pro 11-inch (all generations), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (all generations), iPad Pro 13-inch (all generations)Most recent version
iPadOS 16Same as iPadOS 17, plus iPad mini (4th generation) and iPad Air (2nd generation)
iPadOS 15Same as iPadOS 16, plus iPad (5th generation), iPad mini (3rd generation), and iPad Air (1st generation)Last version to support these older models
iPadOS 14Same as iPadOS 15, plus iPad mini 2
iPadOS 13Same as iPadOS 14, plus iPad Air

Apple Links

iPad models compatible with iPadOS 17

https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/ipad-models-compatible-with-ipados-17-ipad213a25b2/ipados

iPad models compatible with iPadOS 16

https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/supported-models-ipad213a25b2/16.0/ipados/16.0

iPad models compatible with iPadOS 15

https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/supported-models-ipad213a25b2/15.0/ipados/15.0

Important Notes:

  • Check Apple’s Website: This chart provides a general overview. Always refer to Apple’s official support website for the most up-to-date and detailed compatibility information.
  • “Compatible” means: The iPad can run the iPadOS version, but some features may be unavailable on older devices.

Key Takeaways

  • Only selected iPad models are compatible with the new iPadOS 17 update.
  • iPadOS 17 brings new features, but compatibility depends on each device’s hardware.
  • Users should check their iPad model against the compatibility chart before updating.

IPadOS 17 Compatibility and Supported Devices

iPadOS 17 brings new features and improvements, and it’s important to know which devices can run this update. Here is a breakdown of compatibility across different iPad models.

IPad Pro Models Compatibility

iPad Pro 13-inch: Supports 1st generation and later.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch: Supports 1st generation and later.
iPad Pro 11-inch: Supports 1st and 2nd generation.
iPad Pro 10.5-inch: Not supported.
iPad Pro 9.7-inch: Not supported.

IPad Air Generational Support

iPad Air (6th generation): Supported.
iPad Air (5th generation): Supported.
iPad Air (4th generation): Supported.
iPad Air (3rd generation): Not supported.
iPad Air 2: Not supported.

Support for IPad Mini Variants

iPad mini (6th generation): Supported.
iPad mini (5th generation): Not supported.
iPad mini (4th generation): Not supported.

IPad Standard Lineup Updates

iPad (10th generation): Supported.
iPad (9.7-inch 6th generation): Not supported.
iPad (10.2-inch 7th generation): Not supported.
iPad (10.2-inch 8th generation): Not supported.
iPad (10.2-inch 9th generation): Not supported.

For owners of iPad models that are not supported, this means that an upgrade to newer hardware would be required to enjoy the features and updates introduced with iPadOS 17.

New Features and Enhancements in iPadOS 17

iPadOS 17 brings significant upgrades to iPad with new capabilities and easier ways to accomplish tasks. This update focuses on enhancing multitasking, health features, and the integration within the Apple ecosystem.

Multitasking and Home Screen Innovations

iPadOS 17 introduces tools that make multitasking on the iPad more intuitive. Users can now employ gestures to switch between apps swiftly and use Slide Over for quick access to more apps. The updated Home Screen is now more customizable with a selection of interactive widgets and the new Stage Manager feature, allowing users to organize their workspace and apps for a more efficient experience.

Health, Accessibility, and Apple Ecosystem Integration

The new iPadOS expands on health features with an updated Health app, making it easier to monitor and manage health data. Accessibility has been improved with enhancements like Live Captions in FaceTime and adjustable fonts across the system for better visibility. The integration within the Apple ecosystem is seamless, with more powerful ways to hand off tasks between iPad, iPhone, and Mac.

Security, Performance, and Advanced Capabilities

Security and performance in iPadOS 17 have seen substantial advancements, with updates to Safari ensuring a safer browsing experience and faster Apple silicon delivering smooth responsiveness across applications. The Files app supports better organization and sharing of documents, including PDFs, with advanced features such as machine learning-powered Live Text for extracting information from images and photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about iPadOS compatibility, providing clear answers for users seeking information on update eligibility.

Which iPad models are eligible for the iPadOS 17 update?

iPadOS 17 supports the iPad mini (6th generation), iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (4th and 5th generations), and iPad Pro 11-inch (1st and 2nd generations).

Are there any iPads that cannot run the latest version of iPadOS?

Yes, older iPad models that are not listed in the compatibility chart for iPadOS 17 are unable to run the latest version.

What is the list of iPads that support iOS 16?

Previous iOS support such as iOS 16 may include a broader range of iPads, typically ones released in the years immediately before the latest models. However, the specific list would require checking Apple’s official documentation for iOS 16.

What is the oldest iPad model that supports the current iPadOS update?

The compatibility chart indicates that among the oldest models that support iPadOS 17 is the iPad Air (4th generation).

Which iPad models will be updated to iOS 18?

Details on iOS 18 compatibility will be provided closer to the software’s release date. Users should look out for announcements from Apple for accurate information.

How can I find out if my iPad model is compatible with the recent iPadOS releases?

Users can check the latest compatibility chart on Apple’s official support website or in their device settings under the software update section.