Which iPads Get iOS 18?
As of 2023, Apple has officially announced iOS 18, the latest version of its mobile operating system. But which iPads can run this new version? In this article, we’ll break down the key features, limitations, and availability of iPads that can run iOS 18.
What Makes a iPad Pro or Air the Best Candidate?
Before we dive into the details, let’s consider what makes a device a good candidate for running iOS 18. To do so, we’ll examine the key characteristics of the iPads below:
- Apple M1, M2, or M3 Chip: For iOS 18, you’ll need an iPad with a compatible processor from Apple’s A-series chips. This means you can use iPads with the M1, M2, or M3 chip.
- 5G Connectivity: iOS 18 is optimized for 5G networks, so if your iPad has a 5G connection, it’ll receive the latest features and improvements.
- USB-C Port: USB-C is the new standard for many iPads, including the newer models from 2022 and 2023. If your iPad has a USB-C port, you can easily connect to your data cable, monitor, and accessories.
iPad Models That Can Run iOS 18
Now, let’s take a look at the iPads that can run iOS 18. Here are the models that are currently compatible:
- iPad Pro (2021 and later): These iPads support iOS 16, but with a slightly delayed rollout to iOS 18. If you’re looking for the latest features, you’ll want to stick with the M1 iPad Pro.
- iPad Air (2020 and later): These iPads support iOS 16 and can run iOS 18 without any issues. The M1 iPad Air is the most recent model to support iOS 18.
- iPad mini (2021 and later): The M1 iPad mini supports iOS 16 and can run iOS 18 without any issues. If you’re looking for a smaller and more portable device, the iPad mini is a great option.
iPads That Are Not Compatible with iOS 18
As of now, the following iPads are not compatible with iOS 18:
- iPad mini (2018 and earlier): Unfortunately, the iPad mini models from 2018 and earlier are not supported by iOS 18. These older models will only receive iOS 16 and will not receive any new features or improvements.
- iPad (5th generation): The 5th generation iPad, released in 2020, does not support iOS 18. While it still has many great features, it’s not compatible with the latest version of iOS.
iPad Air Models That Are Not Compatible with iOS 18
The following iPad Air models are not compatible with iOS 18:
- iPad Air (2nd generation): The iPad Air (2nd generation) is not supported by iOS 18. These older models will only receive iOS 16 and will not receive any new features or improvements.
- iPad Air (3rd generation): While the iPad Air (3rd generation) supports iOS 16, it’s not compatible with iOS 18. These older models will only receive iOS 16 and will not receive any new features or improvements.
Which iPad Best Fits Your Needs?
Now that we’ve covered the key factors to consider, let’s think about which iPad best fits your needs. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Portability: If you want a larger iPad with a 10.9-inch screen, the iPad Air is a great option. However, if you’re looking for a smaller device, the iPad mini is a great choice.
- Performance: If you need a device with an A16 Bionic chip, the iPad Air Pro is a great option. However, if you need a device with an M1 chip, the iPad Pro is a great choice.
- Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, the iPad Air (1st generation) is a great option. However, if you’re looking for a device with a higher-end processor, the iPad Pro is a great choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, only the iPads with the M1, M2, or M3 chip, and an 5G connection, support iOS 18. The iPad Pro and iPad Air (2021 and later) are the best candidates for running the latest version of iOS. While the iPad Air (2nd generation) and iPad Air (3rd generation) are not compatible with iOS 18, they still support iOS 16 and are great options if you’re looking for a budget-friendly device.