I have a iPad first generation or second generation. It will not update it’s running, super slow and will not let me delete any apps. I know some apps cannot be deleted on this model, but it won’t let me delete some other apps I have installed. It also won’t let me download any games games. I’ve already download just won’t run and will even download half of them.
An iPad first or second generation is a dozen or more years old, is too old to run any recent apps, and is too old to remove many of the built-in apps.
The newest iOS version for the 1st and 2nd gen iPad is iOS 9.3.5, while the current iPadOS is 16.4.
It had a good dozen years’ run, but it’s time for a newer (used, refurb) or new iPad.
An iPad first or second generation is a dozen or more years old, is too old to run any recent apps, and is too old to remove many of the built-in apps.
The newest iOS version for the 1st and 2nd gen iPad is iOS 9.3.5, while the current iPadOS is 16.4.
It had a good dozen years’ run, but it’s time for a newer (used, refurb) or new iPad.
Apple ended update support for obsolete 32-bit devices many years ago. These models of iPad cannot be updated to modern 64-bit versions of iOS/iPadOS - and are incapable of running available 64-bit Apps.
You need to consider that compatible Apps for 32-bit iPad models are no longer available - as (a) App Developers have dropped all support for 32-bit devices, and (b) all 32-bit Apps have been withdrawn from the Apple app Store. 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 than your iPad is capable, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad with a newer or current model.
Of current models, even the entry-level iPad9 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.
Whether or not you are able to update any iPad to a newer version of iOS/iPadOS will be dictated by the 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:
32-bit devices (obsolete)
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)
64-bit devices
iPad Air1, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3 - iOS 12.5.7
iPad Air2, iPad mini4 - iPadOS 15.7.4
Newer models are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 16.4
If your iPad is capable of update to a more recent version of iOS/iPadOS than is currently installed, these support pages outline both the available methods by which the update can be performed - and troubleshooting should you experience difficulties:
Update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support
If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support
If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch won’t update - Apple Support
iOS update and restore errors – Apple Support
Be aware that while an iPad may be capable of update, in some circumstances you may need to use a computer to perform the update. To do so, you will need access to either a Window PC (with iTunes for Windows installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of MacOS). Ensure that your installed version of iTunes has been updated to the most recent version; the essential device drivers are included.
Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support
Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support
Update software on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in iTunes on PC - Apple Support
If you have a beta profile installed, ensure this has been removed from your iPad - as, otherwise, installation of production software updates may be inhibited. This support page provides the necessary information to remove the beta from your iPad:
How to uninstall iOS beta software - Apple Support
You should note that for your iPad to install an available update, its battery must be charged to at least 50% capacity - and/or be connected to its Power Adapter. Similarly, the iPad can only be updated over a standard WiFi connection - or be updated by a PC or Mac using iTunes or Finder - over a USB connection.
Problems with my ipad
