Refurbished iPads and OS Updates
If I purchase a refurbished iPad (2017 model) would it run the latest iOS updates and if so, for how long? Would updates be limited due to the original age of the device?
Thanks.
iPad Air Wi-Fi, Cellular
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The iPad model is the sole limiting factor - as the model determines the hardware (CPU & RAM).
Whether or not you are able to update any iPad to a newer version of iOS/iPadOS will be dictated by the iPad model - and the currently installed version of iOS.
Not sure which iPad you have? Identify your iPad model.
Here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by the older models of iPad (for simplicity - “generations” are shortened to a number) that are restricted in their ability to be updated:
iPad1 - iOS 5.1.1
iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 - iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)
iPad4 - iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only), iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)
iPad Air1, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3 - iOS 12.5.5
Newer models, not appearing in this list, are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 15.2.1
As for “how long” updates will continue to be available, we can only speculate. Newer models are likely to have a longer period on ongoing update support, older models less so. Apple does not pre-announce end of life (EOL) dates.