How to update iPad to the latest version of iPadOS

This article will show you how to update your iPad to the latest version of iPadOS.

Update iPadOS via Settings app

Today, most people have a habit of updating their iPad directly through the Settings app without connecting the device to a computer. This is called 'wireless setup', and it's super simple to do.

First, open the 'Settings' app by tapping the gear icon on the home screen.

In the Settings interface, click on the 'General' item in the left column.

Next, click on 'Software Update' on the right side.

Immediately, information about the latest iPadOS update will be displayed, including the version number and some detailed data about the changes that come with it.

If your iPad hasn't downloaded this update, you'll see a 'Download and Install' button appear. Click it to download the update. Your iPad will automatically install the update once the download is complete.

In case your iPad has downloaded the update but has not installed it, you will see an 'Install Now' button. Click it to apply the new update.

As soon as the installation begins, a pop-up will notify you that the update is being verified. Wait a moment.

Once the verification is complete, the iPad screen will turn black and the system will reboot. The Apple logo and a small progress bar appear in the center of the screen indicating the software update is in progress.

Once the installation is complete, you can use your iPad as usual.

Update iPadOS via USB with Finder or iTunes

You can also update your iPad via a wired connection to a Mac or Windows PC. If your Mac is running macOS 10.15 or later, open Finder. If you're running a Mac macOS 10.14 or earlier, or you're using a Windows PC, open iTunes.

First, connect your iPad to your computer with a Lightning-to-USB cable. If this is your first time connecting your device to your computer, iPad will ask you if the connected device is 'trusted'. Click 'Trust'.

Next, locate your iPad on the computer and click on it. On macOS 10.15 and later, you'll see the connected iPad on the left side of the Finder window, under 'Locations'.

If you use iTunes, click the iPad icon in the toolbar near the top of the screen.

In the iPad info window, navigate to the 'General' tab (in Finder), or Settings > Summary (in iTunes). Click 'Check for Update'.

If an update is available, click 'Download'. When the download is complete, click 'Update'. Enter the password if necessary and the update will be installed.

Make sure your iPad is up to date

After updating your iPad, you can check again to make sure everything is installed.

On iPad, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. If your device is fully updated, you will see a screen similar to the one below:

Your iPad is up to date and ready to go.

Lesley Montoya

Update 08 October 2021