Should I Update to iPadOS 17?

It's beneficial to update your iPad to iPadOS17 to get important security updates. Also, you don't want to miss out on the new features that come with iPadOS 17 .

How Do I Update an Old iPad to iPadOS 17?

Unfortunately, if it's not one of the models mentioned above , you won't be able to update your old iPad to iPadOS 17. For older iPad models that are compatible with iPadOS 17, just make sure to follow the steps in the previous section of this article.

Why Won't My iPad Update to iPadOS 17?

There are multiple reasons why your iPad won't update to iPadOS 17. Your iPad might not support the new software, so always make sure to identify the model of your iPad. Another reason why your iPad software update might have failed is you don't have enough storage on your iPad. Be sure to remove apps and other content that you don't use from your device. Your iPad will also not update if you're not connected to the internet, so be sure to connect to an internet network before proceeding with the update.

How to Update Your iPad to iPadOS 17

By Leanne Hays Updated 09/20/2023

What to Know

Apple's September 2023 software update to the iPad is called iPadOS 17.
iPadOS 17 is now available to download.
iPadOS 17 has made some changes, including Lock Screen widgets.

iPadOS 17 is finally here! We’ll cover how to update your iPad so you can begin to take advantage of the new iPad software features right away. We'll also cover whether or not you should update to iPadOS 17, which models are compatible with the new operating system, and reasons why your iPad won't update to iPadOS 17.

How to Update Your iPad to iPadOS 17

Here's a list of which iPads are compatible with iPadOS 17 and how to update an iPad to iPadOS 17. Check out our free Tip of the Day for more great iPad tutorials.

Which iPads are Compatible with iPadOS 17

System Requirements

In order to update to iPadOS 17, you will need to have one of the following devices :

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation and later)
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
iPad (6th generation and later)
iPad mini (5th generation and later)

How Do You Update Your iPad to iPadOS 17?

Follow the steps below to complete your iPad software update.

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Back up your device to iCloud or to your Mac.
Plug your device into power and make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi.

Open the Settings app.
Tap General.

Select Software Update.
Tap Upgrade to iPadOS 17.

Tap Download and Install. If your iPad already has the most current software, you will see a message noting your iPad is up to date.
Enter your passcode.

Tap Agree to accept the Terms and Conditions.
Tap Agree again.

Tap Install Now. Your tablet will power down. Then, it will power back up and install the software. Once your Lock screen comes back up, unlock your iPad.
You'll see a notification that your iPad has been updated to iPadOS 17.

iPadOS Software FAQ

Should I Update to iPadOS 17? It's beneficial to update your iPad to iPadOS17 to get important security updates. Also, you don't want to miss out on the new features that come with iPadOS 17.
How Do I Update an Old iPad to iPadOS 17? Unfortunately, if it's not one of the models mentioned above, you won't be able to update your old iPad to iPadOS 17. For older iPad models that are compatible with iPadOS 17, just make sure to follow the steps in the previous section of this article.
Why Won't My iPad Update to iPadOS 17? There are multiple reasons why your iPad won't update to iPadOS 17. Your iPad might not support the new software, so always make sure to identify the model of your iPad. Another reason why your iPad software update might have failed is you don't have enough storage on your iPad. Be sure to remove apps and other content that you don't use from your device. Your iPad will also not update if you're not connected to the internet, so be sure to connect to an internet network before proceeding with the update.

By now, your iPad should be updated to Apple's latest iPad software, iPadOS 17. Be sure to check back with us at iPhone Life for all your Apple hardware and software questions!

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Author Details

Leanne Hays

Leanne Hays has over a dozen years of experience writing for online publications. As a Feature Writer for iPhone Life, she has authored hundreds of how-to, Apple news, and gear review articles, as well as a comprehensive Photos App guide. Leanne holds degrees in education and science and loves troubleshooting and repair. This combination makes her a perfect fit as manager of our Ask an Expert service, which helps iPhone Life Insiders with Apple hardware and software issues.
In off-work hours, Leanne is a mother of two, homesteader, audiobook fanatic, musician, and learning enthusiast.

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