iPad (6th generation) stuck on iOS 17.7.10 and not updating

For information, 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 15.8.5

iPad5*, iPad Pro (9.7"/12.9" 1st generation)* - iPadOS 16.7.12

iPad6, iPad Pro 12.9" 2nd generation*, iPad Pro 10.5" - iPadOS 17.7.10

iPad7 - iPadOS 18.7.3

(*) obsolete

Newer models are all able to be updated to the current version - iPadOS 26.2, or optionally if running iPadOS 18.x to iPadOS 18.7.3

• iPad Pro 13" (M4/M5)
• iPad Pro 12.9" (3rd generation and later)
• iPad Pro 11" (1st generation and later + M4/M5)
• iPad Air (3rd generation and later + M2/M3)
• iPad (8th generation and later + A16)
• iPad mini (5th generation and later + A17 Pro)

If your iPad is not capable of update to a more recent version of iPadOS than is currently installed, should you wish to use Apps or services that require a higher version than your iPad is capable, your only option is to replace your iPad with a much newer or current model iPad.

That model isn't capable of 18 or above.

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