How to update an old iPad to iOS 14

 

Revitalize Your Old iPad: Discover step-by-step instructions to effortlessly update your older device to the latest iOS 14, unlocking new features and improved performance.

What’s iOS 14?

iOS 14 is the fourteenth major release of Apple’s mobile operating system, designed for iPhones and iPads. Introduced in September 2020, it brings a host of new features and enhancements aimed at improving user experience, customization, and efficiency.

One notable aspect of iOS 14 is the redesigned home screen, which now includes customizable widgets. These widgets offer real-time information at a glance and can be placed alongside app icons, allowing users to tailor their home screens according to their preferences. Additionally, the App Library automatically organizes apps into categories, making it easier to locate and access apps without cluttering the home screen. Another significant update is the introduction of App Clips, which are lightweight versions of apps that can be quickly accessed when needed, without requiring a full app download.

iOS 14 also emphasizes user privacy by providing more transparency and control over data sharing. It notifies users when an app is accessing their device’s camera or microphone, and it introduces “Approximate Location,” which allows users to share a broader location region with apps instead of their precise coordinates. Moreover, the operating system includes new enhancements to messaging with features like pinned conversations, inline replies, and improved group conversations. These changes collectively offer a more intuitive and personalized experience, making iOS 14 a noteworthy advancement in Apple’s mobile ecosystem.

Ways to upgrade an outdated iPad

Updating an old iPad can give it new life and many extended benefits from the latest iOS versions. It’s highly recommended to keep your device up-to-date, both for performance enhancement and to ensure that you’re protecting yourself from security risks that may be present in outdated versions of iOS. There are two methods you can use to update your iPad: remotely through Wi-Fi or by connecting it to a computer with iTunes.

To update with Wi-Fi, open ‘Settings’ on your device and tap ‘General’. Then select ‘Software Update’ and tap ‘Download and Install’. Your iPad will identify if there is an available update for your software version and download it remotely, without you needing to connect to a computer or with iTunes. If the download fails due to unstable network connections please try again later or connect the device directly via cable to a PC with an updated version of iTunes installed on it. With the device connected, open up iTunes and check for updates in the ‘Summary’ panel of your iPad section. If there is an available update, the ‘Update’ option will be enabled so just hit that and follow any other instructions given by iTunes during the update process.

Installing iOS 14 on an older iPad

Updating an older iPad to iOS 14 can breathe new life into your device, offering access to new features, enhanced security, and improved performance. Unlock the magic of iOS 14 on your trusty iPad with this ultimate guide!

1. Check Compatibility:

• Ensure your iPad model is compatible with iOS 14.
• Experience the magic of our compatible models, including the stunning iPad Air 2 and beyond, the powerful iPad Pro series, the innovative iPad 5th generation and beyond, and the sleek iPad mini 4 and beyond.

2. Backup Your Data:

• Before any major update, it’s crucial to back up your iPad. You can use iCloud or iTunes/Finder on a computer to create a backup of your device’s data.

3. Connect to Wi-Fi and Power:

• Make sure your iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and is adequately charged or connected to a power source to avoid any interruptions during the update process.

4. Update Over-the-Air (OTA):

a. Software Update:

• Access the “Settings” application on your iPad.

b. General:

• Scroll down and tap on “General.”

c. Software Update:

• Tap on “Software Update.” Your device will check for available updates.

d. Download and Install:

• If iOS 14 is available, tap “Download and Install.” If prompted, enter your passcode.

e. Agree to Terms:

• Review the terms and conditions and tap “Agree” to proceed.

f. Update Begins:

• The update will start downloading and installing. Your iPad will restart during the process.

g. Complete Setup:

• Once the update is installed, your iPad will restart, and you’ll need to complete the setup process.

5. Update via iTunes (macOS Catalina and Later) or Finder (macOS Big Sur and Later):

a. Connect Device:

• Connect your iPad to your computer using a USB cable.

b. Launch iTunes/Finder:

• Launch iTunes (macOS Catalina and earlier) or Finder (macOS Big Sur and later).

c. Select Device:

• In iTunes or Finder, select your iPad.

d. Check for Update:

• Click on “Check for Update” or “Check for Update” in Finder. If an update is available, click “Download and Update.”

e. Agree and Update:

• Agree to the terms and click “Agree” again to confirm. The update will start downloading and installing.

f. Complete Setup:

• After the update is installed, your iPad will restart, and you’ll need to complete the setup process.

Updating your old iPad to iOS 14 not only brings a fresh interface but also introduces features like improved widgets, an App Library, enhanced privacy settings, and more. By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of the latest software on your device.

How to customize automatic updates

Customizing automatic updates on your iPad can help ensure the device is kept up-to-date in terms of its software and security features. This can be an important step to take, both in preventing power drainage from constant downloads or uploads and allowing the update to take place without interruption or delay.

To update your iPad’s software, go to the General settings tab in the Settings app and select Software Update. Depending on the version of iOS you’re currently running, you may have two options for updating: Automatic Updates and Manual Updates. With Automatic Updates enabled, your device will check for available updates regularly at a determined time frequency established by you. You can even configure it to install any available updates overnight while charging so that it doesn’t drain the battery excessively throughout the day. With this setting enabled, all application patches will be downloaded completely prompting only a restart request when needed, making sure your device remains fully protected with minimal effort on your part.

What are some options for dealing with an outdated iPad that won’t update?

One way to deal with an old iPad that won’t update is by checking its storage and cleaning up some of the space. If there isn’t enough room, the device won’t be able to download or install software updates. Clearing unnecessary files and apps off your device can free up a lot of storage which may enable you to download the update. Another thing to check is if your old iPad has the appropriate hardware requirements for the most recent iPadOS version. If not, this could be why its unable to update.

In such a case, it may be necessary to upgrade to a newer model of iPad in order to enjoy all the features and advantages of being on the latest OS version. You can either purchase a new iPad, or simply exchange it for a newer model if available. Alternatively, you could also sell your old device as there are many people who would be open to buying iPads for parts or general repairs. Whatever you decide, it’s important that you make sure you completely power down your old device before selling or disposing it away as electronics contain several hazardous materials.