rslitman wrote:
The best answers for me will be ones with NO emojis, NO emoticons, and all texting abbreviations spelled out. Also, I am an original poster or an author, never an OP (it hurt just to type that). Plus, the word "bro" does not accurately describe me. Yes some females are users of technology!
The majority of senior contributors here do not routinely engage in the bulk of behaviours that you clearly dislike. That said, occasional use of an emoji may be seen in circumstances that seem appropriate to the author. Consider that the intended meaning of the written word can sometimes be misinterpreted to convey something that was never intended - such as aggression or similar. Use of an emoji can sometimes help convey/clarify emotional intent, or attempt to disarm what might otherwise be perceived as an incendiary reply.
Clearly, for young or immature participants that engage within this (and other) public forums, you may see "street speak" and greater use of behaviours atypical with social media.
Moving on...
In September 2025, with release of the latest major versions, Apple re-aligned all of its Operating System version numbers to using the Calendar Year as its identifier. As such, for iPad, the major version number stepped from iPadOS 18.x to iPadOS 26.x. There were no intermediate versions; you have missed nothing.
When you update your iPad, you will be offered the most recent release that is compatible with your iPad. Again, intermediate minor versions will not be available.
If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated or post-update software issue:
Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)
If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:
- Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
- Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
- Press and hold the top button.
- When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.
If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:
How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:
Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings
If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:
Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support
Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:
https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044
You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to hands-on assist with troubleshooting:
Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple
Hopefully my reply here meets the requested specifications for an acceptable reply. 🙂 (oops...)
