I need ios11 to run a particular app. can I install on a 2011 iPad2 or what was the 1st. model w/ ios11 to purchase

iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 can only be updated to iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models) or iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular models).

Apple ended update support for these models in September 2016. Your iPad cannot be updated to iOS 10 or later major versions of iOS, as the internal hardware does not meet the minimum technical requirements for new versions of iOS/iPadOS. This limitation cannot be bypassed; these are 32-bit architecture devices, whilst all recent versions of iOS/iPadOS are designed for 64-bit hardware platforms. iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 are obsolete.

You may wish to consider that compatible Apps for your iPad are increasingly difficult to find - as third-party developers are 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 want or need to access most current Apps, requiring more recent versions of iOS, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad with a newer or current model.

Of current models, even the entry-level iPad8 has specifications and capabilities that will massively outperform you current iPad - and is compatible with the vast majority of current Apps. Other models are more powerful still.

If you explicitly are looking for an older model of iPad, capable of running iOS11 or later, you will be looking for an iPad Air1, mini2 or mini3. These models will “max-out” at iOS 12.5.3. As such, your would be best advised to seek a much newer model. Newer models are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 14.5.1.

I hope this information provides helpful and succinct clarity as to your available options - and the limitations of your current iPad.

iOS 11 and 12 require at least an iPad 5, second generation iPad Mini, any iPad Air, or any iPad Pro. If the unit you get isn't currently running 11, you'll need to update it directly to 12.5.3 or 14.5.1 depending on model.

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