How do I turn on automatic updates?

1. Start the Settings app.
2. Tap "General."
3. Tap "Software Update."
4. Tap "Automatic Updates."
5. Turn on Automatic Updates by swiping the button to the right.

Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

See the section on Automatic Updates.

I am having the feeling, however, that with an iPad with iOS 10 you may not be able to update by much., automatically or not.

Here's a simple and fast way to see what is possible with your device, including updating it to the highest sub-version (e.g., 12.5.4 --> 12.5.5) of an iOS/iPadOS you may already have:

On your device, tap:

Settings > General > Software Update.

1. If it says your device is up to date there is nothing more you can do. If apps you are trying to use say you need a higher iOS version, you will need to buy a newer device if you want to run those apps or features.

2. If it says an update is available you will normally only be given one update selection which will be the highest available iOS version supported by your device. However, if you are running an iOS 14 version that is OS 14.5 or greater, you may see two options. Click on a link below for full instructions about how to update wirelessly, or using a computer (see links in document) if you have storage or connectivity issues. If the update listed is not equal to or higher than the iOS version you need to use a feature, you again will need to buy newer equipment if you want to use that feature.

Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT204204

Or this video:

"How to update your iPhone or iPad" click here --> https://youtu.be/csJAEyvvruY