What iPads Are Still Supported in 2025: Latest iPadOS 18

Knowing which iPads are still supported is key to keeping your device running smoothly, safely, and up to date. 

Apple rolls out regular updates that improve features and security, but not every iPad makes the cut each year. As of 2025, models like the iPad Pro (3rd generation and newer), iPad Air (4th generation and up), iPad (10th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation) are still 

Whether you're checking for iPadOS compatibility, thinking about downloading new apps, or deciding if it’s time to upgrade, this guide has what you need.

Here's the full list of supported iPads, iPadOS compatibility, and when to consider an upgrade.

What iPad Models Are Compatible With the New Version iPadOS 18

If you want to know if your iPad can get iPadOS 18, the answer depends on your model. Apple supports most iPads made in the last few years, but some older models no longer get updates.

You can use iPadOS 18 if you have one of these iPad models:

• iPad Pro
   
  • 11-inch: 1st generation and later (from 2018)
  • 12.9-inch: 3rd generation and later (from 2018)
  • Newer Pro models, like those with M2 or M4 chips, also work
• iPad Air
   
  • 3rd generation and later (from 2019)
  • Includes 11-inch (M2) and 13-inch (M2) versions
• iPad
   
  • 7th generation and later (from 2019)
  • Supported: 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th generation iPads
• iPad mini
   
  • 5th generation and later (from 2019)
  • 6th and 7th generation are also supported

Devices released before these, such as the iPad (6th generation), are not compatible with iPadOS 18. If you are not sure which iPad you have, you can check in the Settings app under General and About.

Some newer iPad models, especially those with the latest chips, may be able to use extra features in later updates to iPadOS 18. If you want the latest features, using a newer iPad Pro or iPad Air is a good idea.

📌 Also Read: How Do I Find Out What Generation My iPad Is? Guide for Apple Users

What iPads Are Still Supported in 2025? Full Compatibility Breakdown

Many iPad models are still supported in 2025, but the exact version of iPadOS you can install depends on which iPad you own. Knowing what iPads are still supported helps you plan for updates and security.

Supported iPads That Can Run iPadOS 17

If you want the latest features, only certain iPads can install iPadOS 17. You can check your model in Settings > General > About.

Here are the iPads that support iPadOS 17:

• iPad Pro 12.9 inch (2nd generation and newer)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (all generations)
• iPad Air (3rd generation and newer)
• iPad (6th generation and newer, includes 10.2" 7th, 8th, and 9th gens, and the 10.9" 10th gen)
• iPad mini (5th generation and newer)

These models get the latest iPadOS updates, features, and security fixes.

If you see your iPad listed above, you are still fully supported by Apple in 2025.

iPads Still Supported But Running Older iPadOS Versions

Some iPads do not support iPadOS 17 but can still run older systems like iPadOS 15 or 16. You can still use them to browse, stream, and run most apps, but not all new apps or security patches may be available.

Examples of iPads in this group:

• iPad Air 2 (supports iPadOS 15, but does not go higher)
• iPad mini 4 (last supported on iPadOS 15)
• iPad (5th generation) (can run iPadOS 16)

These tablets still work for many tasks. However, you will want to watch out for missing app updates or security support in the future.

If your iPad is here, it has not been dropped by Apple, but it is no longer on the newest software.

iPads That Are No Longer Supported

Older iPads can no longer get new iPadOS updates. They cannot install the latest versions and will stop receiving any official support, features, or patches.

Common models that fall into this group include:

• iPad (4th generation and older)
• iPad mini (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generations)
• iPad Air (1st generation)

If your iPad is on this list, consider upgrading if you notice apps do not work or your device feels slow.

Unsupported iPads may still be usable for simple tasks, but over time, more apps will stop working. You will not get security protection, so storing personal information is unsafe.

📌 Also Read: How Do I Know What Size iPad I Have? A Quick Guide

What iPads Are Still Supported? Here's How to Check Your Device

Different iPad models get software support for different lengths of time. To determine if your iPad is still supported, you must know your model and check it against Apple’s update list.

Find Your iPad Model Number

The first step is to find your iPad’s model number. This will help you determine whether your device can install the latest iPadOS.

• Open the Settings app on your iPad.
• Tap General, then tap About.
• Look for "Model Number." It may look like A1822 or A2270.
• If you only see a longer number with a slash (like MYL92LL/A), tap it once to show the model number that starts with an "A."

Once you know your model number, you can compare it to online lists showing which iPad models support the latest iPadOS.

Visit Apple’s Support Page

Apple keeps an up-to-date list of all iPad models that can receive the latest update, such as iPadOS 18. You can always check the official Apple Support page.

• Go to the Apple Support iPad page.
• Scroll to "Identify your iPad."
• Look up your model number to find the name and generation.
• Apple’s site will usually state which updates your iPad is eligible for.

Here is a simple table showing some newer supported models:

If your iPad model is not on Apple’s newest list, it will not get future software updates.

Use Third-Party Tools or Lists

Other tech websites and iPad model checker tools are helpful if you want more details or an easier search.

• EveryMac and MacTracker both list iPad models and their update history.
• Many tech blogs create "iPadOS Compatibility" guides each year. These lists are precise and updated often.
• You can also search for your model number with phrases like "Is A2197 still supported?"

Some tools highlight the average number of years of updates you get. For example, iPad Pro models usually get about 7-8 years of updates. 

Basic iPads may last 5-6 years. Using more than one source helps you double-check whether your iPad will keep getting updates or if it is time to replace it.

📌 Also Read: Can the iPad Pro Replace Your Laptop? Find Out Now

What to Do If Your iPad Is No Longer Supported by the Latest iPadOS 18

If your iPad is no longer receiving updates from Apple, you still have options. Depending on its use, you can keep it, upgrade it, or find a new purpose.

Stick With It (If It Still Works Well)

You do not have to stop using an old iPad just because it's unsupported. If your iPad still does what you need and runs smoothly, you can keep using it for basic tasks.

Web browsing, reading ebooks, streaming videos, and checking emails are common uses that often work fine on iPads. If you use your iPad for these activities and do not notice problems, it is safe to keep using it.

However, you should be extra careful online. Unsupported iPads do not get security updates, and you should not enter private information on websites you do not trust.

Suitable use cases:

• Watching YouTube or Netflix
• Reading news or magazines
• Viewing family photos

Upgrade for Security & App Support

When your iPad can no longer update to new iPadOS versions, it misses out on important security fixes and software features. Many apps, like banking, school, or shopping, need the latest software.

You may start to see apps stop updating or refuse to run. If you notice this, or if you use your iPad for anything sensitive like banking, it's time to upgrade. Upgrading protects your personal data and keeps things working smoothly.

Reasons to upgrade:

• Keep getting app updates
• Use the latest features in favorite apps
• Make sure personal and financial info stays secure

Look for the newest iPad models that match your needs and budget.

Repurpose It as a Secondary Device

Older iPads can still be helpful around the house. Even if they're slow for big tasks, you can often use them for specific things that don't need updates.

Ideas for using an old iPad:

• As an ebook reader for your favorite books
• For young children to play simple games
• As a digital photo frame on your desk
• To control smart home devices, like lights and thermostats
• For playing music or podcasts

Just install the apps you plan to use before the iPad loses access to the App Store. If the iPad is no longer secure, avoid putting your info on it. This way, you get more life out of your device.

Conclusion: Know What iPads Are Still Supported and Make the Smart Move

With the release of iPadOS 18, Apple continues to support many of its recent iPads, giving users access to new features and better security. 

If your device is on the list of supported models, you can enjoy updates like smarter Siri, improved customization, and better privacy settings. Updating your iPad so it runs smoothly and stays secure is always a good idea. If your iPad is no longer supported, consider an upgrade. 

Here are the supported iPad models for iPadOS 18:

• iPad (7th generation or newer)
• iPad mini (5th generation or newer)
• iPad Air (3rd generation or newer)
• iPad Pro (3rd generation or newer and some later second-gen Pros

Want to keep your iPad safe and ready for school? Check out our student-friendly keyboard cases from Chesona, which protect your iPad and make typing and studying easier.

❓ FAQs About What iPads Are Still Supported

Apple supports its iPads for several years, but older models lose update eligibility over time. Checking your iPad's software and knowing support options help you keep your device secure and working great.

What iPads will still be supported by Apple in 2025?

As of 2025, Apple supports newer iPads with regular updates and security fixes. Supported models include the iPad mini 6th generation, iPad mini with A17 Pro chip, iPad 10th generation, iPad with A16 chip, iPad Air 4th generation and newer, and recent iPad Pro models.

How do I know if my iPad is still supported?

To check if your iPad gets the latest updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update appears, your iPad is still supported. You can also look up your device's model in Apple's official list of supported models for the latest iPadOS version.

What happens if my iPad is no longer supported?

If your iPad is no longer supported, it will not get any new iPadOS updates or security patches. Apps may stop updating or working properly over time. Security risks may also increase as bugs and flaws will not be fixed by Apple.

What is the oldest iPad model that can run iPadOS 18?

The oldest iPads able to run iPadOS 18 are the iPad mini 6th generation, iPad (10th generation), iPad Air 4th generation, and some iPad Pro models from recent years. Older iPads like the iPad mini 5 or iPad 9th generation are not compatible with iPadOS 18.

Can I still use an iPad that no longer gets updates?

Yes, you can still use your iPad if it no longer receives updates. It will continue to work for basic tasks like browsing or reading. However, some apps might stop working, making your iPad less secure.

Is it worth upgrading an old iPad?

Upgrading is worth it if you need better performance, new features, or improved security. If your old iPad can't run the latest apps or is not getting security updates, getting a newer model can make your device experience better and safer. If your current iPad works fine for you, you can keep using it for simple tasks.