Why wont my ipad update

Whether or not you are able to update your iPad to a newer version of iOS/iPadOS will be dictated by your iPad model - and the currently installed version of iOS. You can find this information here:

Settings > General > About

Not sure which iPad you have? Identify your iPad model.

Here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by the older models of iPad (for simplicity - “generations” are shortened to a number) that are restricted in their ability to be updated:

iPad1 - iOS 5.1.1

iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 - iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad4 - iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only), iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad Air1, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3 - iOS 12.5.1

Newer models, not appearing in this list, are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 14.3.

Compatible Apps for older models of iPad are increasingly difficult to find. 32-bit Apps for iPad4 and earlier are obsolete - and have been withdrawn from the App Store; third-party developers are also increasingly dropping support for older versions of iOS preceding iOS11/12/13. As older versions of Apps are removed from the Apple App Store, you’ll not be able to (re)download or install them - which may severely limit the usefulness and utility of your iPad. As such, if you have an older model iPad and want (or need) to access most current Apps, requiring a more recent versions of iOS, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad with a newer or current model.

If your iPad is relatively recent (i.e., can run recent versions of iOS/iPadOS) and cannot update Apps, this support page may be helpful with troubleshooting:

If you can’t download or update apps on your iPhone or other Apple device - Apple Support

If you can provide more information about your iPad, it may be possible to provide more targetted comment and assistance.