Is Your iPad Obsolete and Outdated? (2024)

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iPads last a very long time, but they don't last forever

By

Daniel Nations

Is Your iPad Obsolete and Outdated? (1)

Writer

  • University of Texas at Arlington

Daniel Nations has been a tech journalist since 1994. His work has appeared in Computer Currents, The Examiner, and other publications. He is a developer who has published apps in the Apple App Store, Google Play marketplace and Amazon Appstore; he also has worked as a data analyst and DB administrator.

Updated on May 15, 2024

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Christine Baker

Reviewed byChristine Baker

    Christine Baker is a marketing consultant with experience working for a variety of clients. Her expertise includes social media, web development, and graphic design.

    We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

    In This Article

    Jump to a Section

    • Obsolete Models

    • Vintage iPads

    • Discontinued but Supported

    • Currently Sold and Supported

    If you have an obsolete or outdated iPad, it may be unable to run the newest apps or update existing apps. In a technical sense, an obsolete device is one that the manufacturer no longer supports. Here's a list of iPads that are no longer supported or discontinued but supported.

    Obsolete Models

    The following iPad models are obsolete. In this case, obsolete means discontinued and unsupported by Apple. These devices aren't made anymore and don't support the latest versions of iPadOS.

    • iPad: Original, 2, 3, 4
    • iPad Air: Original
    • iPad Mini: Original, 2, 3

    Vintage iPads

    Vintage iPads are not quite obsolete, but they don't receive full support from Apple. They may receive small updates, including bug fixes. Apple's official definition of "vintage" is that they've been unavailable for sale for five to seven years. The following iPads fall into this category and may lose full support soon:

    • iPad: 5
    • iPad Air: 2
    • iPad Mini: 4
    • iPad Pro: Original

    Discontinued but Supported

    Some iPads are still supported but no longer sold by Apple. The following models remain within Apple's service window for iPadOS updates:

    • iPad: 6, 7, 8, 9
    • iPad Air: 3, 4, 5
    • iPad Mini: 5
    • iPad Pro: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Currently Sold and Supported

    The following devices are available in stores and receive full software support from Apple, including bug fixes and full iPadOS updates. These links will take you directly to Apple so you can get more details.

    Is Your iPad Obsolete and Outdated? (2)

    Uses for Obsolete iPads

    An iPad out of the service window isn't necessarily useless because it no longer receives iPadOS updates. An older tablet makes a great tableside companion in your living room, an effective e-book reader, or a light-duty device for reading mail or checking your favorite websites.

    It's okay to use the device until it dies. Still, the longer your iPad goes without updates from Apple, the more likely it is that security glitches could affect your tablet. So, don't use an unpatched iPad for essential or sensitive applications.

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    Is Your iPad Obsolete and Outdated? (2024)

    FAQs

    Is Your iPad Obsolete and Outdated? ›

    With each update, Apple releases a full list of devices that are able to download it. If you don't see your model on the list and it's more than 5-6 years old, it's likely that your iPad is too old to handle a new update. Your iPad can't download new apps or update the ones you have.

    How do I know if my iPad is obsolete? ›

    If you have an obsolete or outdated iPad, it may be unable to run the newest apps or update existing apps. In a technical sense, an obsolete device is one that the manufacturer no longer supports. Here's a list of iPads that are no longer supported or discontinued but supported.

    Which iPad models are outdated? ›

    Obsolete iPads
    • Original iPad Air.
    • Original iPad mini.
    • iPad mini 3.
    • Original iPad.
    • iPad 2nd generation.
    • iPad 3rd generation.
    • iPad 4th generation.
    Sep 19, 2023

    When should iPads be replaced? ›

    Your iPad should last at least 5 years. But your device can last even longer depending on: Your iPad model. A newer iPad Pro, which has more storage and features, will likely last longer than an older or lower-end model.

    What should I do with an obsolete iPad? ›

    When this product reaches its end of life, take it to a collection point designated by local authorities.

    How do you tell when you need a new iPad? ›

    Signs that your iPad may be ready for an upgrade:
    1. Slow performance.
    2. Poor battery life.
    3. Inability to access secure websites (E.g. banking websites or financial institutions)
    4. Emails not loading properly.
    5. Inability to update your apps.
    6. Running low on storage - have to remove pictures, applications and other data.
    Feb 4, 2024

    How long until an iPad is outdated? ›

    For an Apple product to be declared obsolete means that production has been stopped for seven years. Here's the current list of obsolete iPads. SEE ALSO: When will your Mac desktop computer become obsolete?

    Which iPad Cannot be updated anymore? ›

    Two iPads will no longer get Apple software updates: the iPad mini 4 and iPad Air 2. To check your iPad's model number go to Settings > General > About > Model Name.

    What is the lifespan of an iPad? ›

    While the answer truly depends on the particular model and its intended use, you can reasonably expect an iPad to last 4-7 years. Generally speaking, the iPad is a very dependable mobile computer, and the only notable wear item is the battery.

    How do I update an outdated iPad? ›

    Update your iPhone or iPad
    1. Back up your device using iCloud or your computer.
    2. Plug your device into power and connect to the internet with Wi-Fi.
    3. Go to Settings > General, then tap Software Update.
    4. If you see more than one software update option available, choose the one that you want to install.
    5. Tap Install Now.
    Apr 24, 2024

    How often should I get a new iPad? ›

    iPads generally have a lifespan of about 5 years. Keep your software as up-to-date as possible. Plan to replace your tablet every 3 years.

    Do iPads get slower with age? ›

    Additionally, iPads may slow down or become less responsive as they age, especially when running newer, more demanding applications.

    Is it worth fixing an old iPad? ›

    If your budget is very tight, it is wiser to get the device fixed. But there's a limited time after which your iPad will struggle to keep up. Ultimately, the decision to repair an older iPad depends on how you plan to use it, your budget, and your readiness to forego newer features.

    What is the oldest iPad that can still be updated? ›

    Apple iPad
    ReleaseReleasedSupported
    iPad (9th generation)2 years and 9 months ago (24 Sep 2021)Yes
    iPad Mini (6th generation)2 years and 9 months ago (24 Sep 2021)Yes
    iPad Pro (5th generation)3 years ago (21 May 2021)Yes
    iPad Air (4th generation)3 years and 8 months ago (23 Oct 2020)Yes
    24 more rows
    Feb 29, 2024

    Are old iPads worth anything? ›

    In general, Apple Products hold their value extremely well. And iPads specifically hold their value even better than most other Apple products. With that said, all electronics lose value over time. So no matter which iPad you own, the best time to sell your used iPad is now.

    Can I just throw away an old iPad? ›

    Safely Disposing Old iPads

    To get rid of an old iPad, visit Apple's Trade In website to earn credits you can apply towards new purchases. If your device isn't eligible for credits, Apple will still recycle your iPad for free. You can also check for e-waste facilities, sell, or donate your device.

    Which iPads cannot be updated anymore? ›

    Two iPads will no longer get Apple software updates: the iPad mini 4 and iPad Air 2. To check your iPad's model number go to Settings > General > About > Model Name.

    What is the life expectancy of an iPad? ›

    How long can you expect an iPad to last? While the answer truly depends on the particular model and its intended use, you can reasonably expect an iPad to last 4-7 years. Generally speaking, the iPad is a very dependable mobile computer, and the only notable wear item is the battery.

    How can I find out how old my iPad is? ›

    How Old Is My iPad?
    1. Go to Settings > General > Legal & Regulatory.
    2. Scroll all the way down.
    3. The date your iPad was sold is listed in YYYY-MM-DD format.

    How do I check the life of my iPad? ›

    To learn how your iPad usage affects the battery level, go to Settings > Battery. Information about your battery usage and activity appears for the last 24 hours and up to the last 10 days. Insights and suggestions: You might see insights about conditions or usage patterns that cause iPad to consume energy.

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