iPad Automatic Updates Not Working? Here’s The Fix

In this article, I'll explain why iPad automatic updates are not working and show you how to fix the problem step-by-step

By Moses Johnson - Editor
1 Min Read

You want your iPad to update itself automatically, but something’s not working. iPadOS has an “Automatic Updates” feature which allows your iPad to download and install the latest updates on its own. In this article, I’ll explain why iPad automatic updates are not working and show you how to fix the problem for good!

Make Sure Automatic Updates Is Turned On

You have to manually turn on Automatic Updates before your iPad will automatically download and install new versions of iPadOS. First, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. Then, tap the switch next to iPadOS Updates under Automatically Install. You’ll know iPadOS Updates is on when the switch is green.

Plug Your iPad Into A Charger

Your iPad won’t automatically download iPadOS updates when it isn’t charging. Make sure your iPad is charging using a USB-C cable.

Connect Your iPad To Wi-Fi

Your iPad has to be connected to Wi-Fi before it will automatically download new iPadOS updates. To connect to a Wi-Fi network on your iPad, go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Make sure there’s a check mark next to the name of your Wi-Fi network at the top of the screen.

If no Wi-Fi network has been selected, or if you want to connect to a different Wi-Fi network, tap on it in the list below Choose A Network.

Lock Your iPad

Your iPad won’t automatically download iPadOS updates when it isn’t locked. Press the top button to lock your iPad.

Apple Servers May Be Too Busy

Although it’s uncommon, it’s possible iPad automatic updates are not working because Apple’s servers are experiencing a lot of traffic. Sometimes Apple’s servers can slow down or crash entirely when too many iPad users are trying to download an update at the same time.

Check out Apple’s System Status page and make sure everything is working properly. If you see that a lot of Apple systems are having trouble at the moment, you may have to wait a little while longer before you can update your iPad.

Updates On Automatic!

You’ve fixed the problem and now your iPad is downloading the latest iPadOS update on its own. Now you’ll know exactly what to do next time iPad automatic updates are not working! Leave any other questions you have about your iPad down below in the comments section.

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Moses Johnson is the Editorial Director of GeeksChalk.com, who has a keen eye for news, rumors, and all the unusual stuff around Apple products. Moses is commonly referred to online as The Professor, with decades of experience in tech under his belt.
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