Is Your iPad Obsolete and Outdated?

If you have an obsolete or outdated iPad, it may be unable to run the newest apps or update existing apps.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.

• iPad 10
• iPad Air 6
• iPad Mini 6
• iPad Pro 7

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.