- To update your iPad, you’ll simply need to check for updates through the Settings app.
- You can also update your iPad using a computer.
- Finally, you can set your iPad to update automatically in the background.
Just like an iPhone, iPads undergo periodic software updates that include everything from bug fixes, to new features, to general improvements.
Your iPhone will let you know when there’s a new update available via a notification, but you can also manually check and update your update to the latest software on your own time.
We’ll show you how to update your iPad wirelessly and how to update it using a computer. We’ll also show you how to adjust your settings to ensure your iPad is updating automatically.
Before you start, you should back up your device. If you’re updating wirelessly, you’ll need to plug your iPad into power and connect to Wi-Fi. If you’re using a Mac or a Windows computer to update, you’ll need a compatible cable. Ready?
How to update your iPad wirelessly:
Let’s start by showing you how to update your iPad wirelessly.
When there’s an update available, you might get an alert, which you can tap to start the update process, or a badge might appear on the Settings app icon on your home screen.
Step 1: Launch Settings.
Step 2: Tap General.
Step 3: Tap Software Update. You might have the option to choose between two available updates. If you’d like to continue using your current version of iPadOS, there might be important security updates you can install for a period of time, or you can upgrade to the latest version.
Step 4: You can tap Update Tonight if you want to wait until later, and your iPad will update overnight while it is locked and the battery has enough charge. To update right away, tap Update Now, then enter your passcode. Follow any other prompts, which might include reviewing and accepting terms and conditions to continue. Your iPad will begin the update process, and when it’s finished, your iPad will restart.
How to update your iPad using a computer:
Next, let’s look at how you can update your iPad using a computer.
Before starting the update, make sure your device is plugged into a computer and that the computer is connected to the internet.
Step 1: If you’re using a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open the Finder. If you’re using a Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier or a Windows computer, open iTunes.
Step 2: A notification might appear when an update is available. You can click it to start the update process; otherwise, click your device in the sidebar on the left side of the Finder.
Step 3: Make sure you’re in the General tab and then click Update. Then click Update again and follow the prompts, which might include reviewing and accepting terms and conditions to continue. Your iPad will restart when it’s done.
How to update iPad automatically
Of course, if you don’t feel like manually checking for iPadOS updates all the time, you can set your iPad to look for and download updates automatically. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open the Settings app.
Step 2: Scroll to and select General.
Step 3: Tap Software Update.
Step 4: Tap Automatic Update.
Step 5: Turn on iOS Updates below Automatically Install and Automatically Download.
Once these settings are turned on, your iPad will download and install available updates overnight while charging and connected to Wi-Fi. You’re notified before an update is installed.
That’s how you can get your iPad up to date with all the latest features and security enhancements.
