Is my iPad Pro 2015 too old for software updates?

You have identified a first generation iPad Pro 9.7" - for which the last available update is iPadOS 16.7.10.

While Apple continues to release occasional point security updates for major security issues, your iPad is very much within its twilight for system software updates. When security updates cease, as emerging security vulnerabilities are not patched, your iPad will become increasingly vulnerable to exploit.

While your iPad will continue to have utility for a number of years, you might be well advised to consider replacing with a much newer model. Be aware that for your own safely, some websites and online services (in particular financial and banking) may no longer permit use of devices that no longer receive security updates. App Developers may also drop support for older devices over time.

For information, here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by all 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 15.8.3

iPad5, iPad Pro (9.7"/12.9" 1st generation)* - iPadOS 16.7.10

iPad6, iPad Pro (10.5"/12.9" 2nd generation) - iPadOS 17.7.2

(*) obsolete

Newer models are all able to be updated to the current version - iPadOS 18.1.1

• iPad Pro 13" (M4)
• iPad Pro 12.9" (3rd generation and later)
• iPad Pro 11" (1st generation and later + M4)
• iPad Air (3rd generation and later + M2)
• iPad (7th generation and later)
• iPad mini (5th generation and later + A17 Pro)

For your iPad, insofar as system software updates are available, it is indeed up-to-date with iPadOS 16.7.10.

As you will see from the list that I provided, your iPad is obsolete - and not capable of update to iPadOS 17 or later. Technically, your iPad lacks the system resources (CPU and RAM) to support more recent versions of iPadOS. You cannot "force" installation of a more recent version than your iPad is capable.

i was reading this to help myself with an issue and thought I got answer from your list above. However I see iPad Pro listed under 64 bit ( 1st gen) as no longer updating past 16.7 yet in the next list you also have iPad Pro all gen’s as still being supported. Are there separate iPad pros 64 bit versus something else? And if there is a difference how can I tell which mine is? I have an ipadpro11 that I’ve not used all year. The date and time is wrong on it and software update is probably needed to fix that but it is updated only to the 16.7. So before I spend time trying one fix before exploring another to fix the date etc… I’d like to know what iOS my pro 11 should update to? Sorry for reopening this can of worms

truelytess wrote:

i was reading this to help myself with an issue and thought I got answer from your list above. However I see iPad Pro listed under 64 bit ( 1st gen) as no longer updating past 16.7 yet in the next list you also have iPad Pro all gen’s as still being supported. Are there separate iPad pros 64 bit versus something else? And if there is a difference how can I tell which mine is? I have an ipadpro11 that I’ve not used all year. The date and time is wrong on it and software update is probably needed to fix that but it is updated only to the 16.7. So before I spend time trying one fix before exploring another to fix the date etc… I’d like to know what iOS my pro 11 should update to? Sorry for reopening this can of worms

Perhaps you have misread the table. Pay careful attention to the respective generations of iPad Pro - as their specifications markedly differ.

By example, the iPad Pro 11" first generation is substantially more recent (A12X CPU with 6GB RAM) than the first generation iPad Pro 9.7" and 12.9" (both with an A9X CPU - with 2GB and 4GB RAM respectively).

All models of iPad Pro 11" are capable of update to iPadOS 18.1.1 - this being the current production version.

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

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 Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed - or the more recent Apple Devices App) 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

Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with the Finder - Apple Support

Apple Devices App (Windows PC):

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9np83lwlpz9k?hl=en-ms&gl=MS

(*) If you don’t have access to a suitable computer of your own, that of a helpful friend or family member will suffice. Alternatively, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be delighted to assist.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

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.

no, it's suppose to support ipados18

iPad Pro - Wikipedia

You're very welcome. I'm delighted to learn that the explanation was helpful to you.