Which iPad can be updated to iOS 12

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iOS 12.5.7 is the only version that can be updated on the original iPad Air, iPad mini2, and iPad mini 3.

Major update support for these iPad models was discontinued by Apple in September 2019. However, they are still receiving sporadic "point" security updates, with the most recent one arriving in January 2023.

The internal hardware of these devices does not meet the minimum technical requirements (CPU capabilities and available RAM) for newer versions of iOS/iPadOS, so they cannot be updated to iPadOS 13 or any later major versions of iPadOS.

For informational purposes, the following is a list of the most recent version of iOS that is compatible with the older iPad models (‘generations’ are shortened to a number for simplicity) that have limited updating capabilities:

32-bit (now obsolete) devices

  • iPad1: iOS 5.1.1
  • iPad2: iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)
  • iPad mini1, iPad3, and iPad mini1: iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only) and 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)

64-bit gadgets

The iPad Air1, iPad mini2, and iPad mini 3 are running iOS 12.5.7.

Let’s investigate which iPad is the oldest that is still updateable.

  • Launched on September 18, 2023, iPadOS 17
  • (Last updated in September 2023) iPadOS 16
  • (Last updated in September 2023) iPadOS 15
  • Some iPads run iOS 12, which was most recently updated in January 2023.
  • Security updates are no longer supported for anything older than iPadOS 15.

Let’s examine the reasons behind my iPad not updating to iOS 12.

  • In the event that your device’s software cannot find enough space to download and install an update, it will attempt to create some.
  • You can update your device with your computer if it still doesn’t have enough space.
  • If you are unable to connect your device to your computer, you can free up space on your device by uninstalling any unnecessary apps and content.
  • To update your device, an internet connection is required.
  • The size of the update and the speed of your internet will determine how long it takes to download.
  • One of the following messages could appear if you attempt to update your device:
    • It’s possible that the progress bar is moving slowly while you install the update.