How to Update Old iPad [4 Proven and Tested Approaches]

The manufacturer of Apple devices like iPads, Apple, releases new features often. It is to level up the experience of their users or buyers or fix the bugs for old versions. Sometimes, the updates concern security, features, systems, etc. Most users update their iPadOS to experience the newly released features on their devices.

Some of you ask: Can you update an old iPad? Yes. Updating an iPad software version is possible. However, not all iPadOS versions are available and accessible to it. There are certain available versions for iPadOS, depending on their models. This post will show you how to update iPads to their latest versions based on the model. See the methods by scrolling below.

Part 1. How to Update Old iPad through Settings

iPads have a built-in way to update their software versions, the Settings app. You may ask: Is my iPad too old to update? The good thing about this app is that it will let you know if the new updates are compatible with your iPad model. In addition, it can update your iPad software version automatically once the Automatic Update feature is turned on. See how beneficial it is to use the Settings app to update the old iPad by following the detailed steps.

Step 1Access and open the Settings app and choose the General button on the initial interface. Then, select the Software Update button on the right. You will be directed to a new screen afterward.

Step 2The iPad will scan if software updates are available. You will see the version name on the screen if there's any. You only need to tap the Download and Install button at the bottom to download it.

Part 2. How to Update Old iPad through iTunes

Does your computer have iTunes? You’re lucky if you have it installed! The reason is that it can also update your old iPad to its latest compatible software version. This program is available on the earlier macOS versions and Windows operating systems.

If you use your latest Mac to update the old iPad, you may skip this procedure and go to the alternative  to iTunes on the latest macOS versions. See the detailed steps below to use iTunes to update your iPad to the latest compatible version.

Step 1Get a working USB or lightning cable to plug the iPad into the computer. The iPad icon must appear at the top left. Click it, then choose the Summary button to see more options.

Step 2Select the Check for Update button to let the program scan for the available updates for your iPad. The process will only take a few seconds. Please click the Download and Update button if there's any software version. Also, you need to check the Terms & Conditions button to confirm the procedure afterward.

Part 3. How to Update Old iPad through Finder

You’re in this section maybe because you are using the latest version of macOS, and it does not support iTunes. Finder is the best alternative for iTunes because it has the same processes and only differs in buttons. See how Finder updates old iPad by imitating the step-by-step guide below.

Step 1Obtain an effective USB or lightning cable to connect the iPad to the computer. It must display the iPad icon at the upper left. To view further options, click it and pick the General button. Select the Check for Updates icon to allow the software to scan for available iPad updates. It will just take a few seconds to complete.

Step 2If a software version is available, kindly click the Download and Update button. You have to confirm the process by selecting the Terms & Conditions button.

Part 4. How to Update Old iPad with FoneLab iOS System Recovery

Third-party tools can also update the software version of the iPad aside from the built-in ways and programs. One of the top picks software is FoneLab iOS System Recovery. Aside from that, it can also fix other iPadOS malfunctions, including old iPads won't update, charge issues, loop restart, and more. It offers 2 repair modes that can help you with the process: Standard Mode and Advanced Mode. You will know their functions upon using the tool and following the detailed steps below. Move on.

Step 1First, download FoneLab iOS System Recovery on your computer. Clicking the Free Download button will do that. Then, set it up and launch it to start the process. Please select the iOS System Recovery button at the top right on the initial interface.

Step 2Click the Start button under the supported issues of the software on the main interface. After that, get a USB cable and plug the iPad into the computer as the software requires. Then, the information on the iPad will be shown, and click the Fix button to proceed.

Step 3Kindly select the repair mode you prefer for updating the software version of your iPad. You can see their information and functions under their names. Then, click the Confirm icon to proceed to the next step.

Step 4The software will let you see the firmware package and download it once you click the Next button. The process will take place on the next interface. After downloading the firmware package, go to the Update to iOS section. Later, the compatible iPadOS version will be shown. You only need to choose among them to start the updating process.

Part 5. FAQs about How to Update Old iPad

In conclusion, you can update the old iPad only with the compatible iPadOS version. The reason is that the software version available will depend on the iPad model. The good news is that this post posted the 4 proven and tested methods to update an old iPad to its latest compatible iPadOS version. It includes the leading tool to execute that: FoneLab iOS System Recovery. Do you have more questions? Please leave them in the comment section below. Thank you!