3 Simple Ways to Update iOS Software on an iPad

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Get the latest Apple software update for iPadOS

Co-authored by Luigi Oppido and Rain Kengly

Last Updated: September 21, 2024 Fact Checked

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Using Settings

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Using Mac

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Using Windows

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Video

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Q&A

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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
Connect your iPad to a power source. 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.
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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This is the cog icon.
You can find this below Screen Time.
It's near the top of the page.
6
Tap Update Now. You'll see this button if there's an update available.
- You may also see Download and Install.
7
Enter your device's passcode. Once you've entered the passcode, the download will start. The update may take some time to complete.^{[1]
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- When it's finished updating, your iPad will restart and you'll be asked to enter your passcode from the lock screen again.
- If you're getting the Verifying Update error, try to restart your iPad first.
- You can also update your iPad on a computer using iTunes on Windows or the Finder on Mac.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using Mac

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1
Connect your iPad to your computer. 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]
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Open the Finder. You can find this on the Dock.
3
Click your device. 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.
This is the tab underneath your iPad's name. You may already be on this tab.
It'll take a few moments for the Finder to check.
6
Click Download and Update. 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.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using Windows

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In order to download update software for your iPad, iTunes must be running the latest version available.^{[3]
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2
Connect your iPad to your computer. 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
Click your device's icon. 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.
This is in the left panel.
You can find this in the top section.
6
Click Download and Update. 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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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