Why can't I upgrade my ipad to IOS 12?

Hello YolyGil,

Here's the easy answer:

Do this:

On your device tap:

Settings > General > Software Update.

1. If it says your device is up to date there is simply nothing more you can do. If apps you are trying to use say you need a higher iOS version, you will need to buy a newer device if you want to run those apps or features.

2. If it says an update is available you will only be given one update selection which will be the highest available iOS version supported by your device. Click on the link below for full instructions about how to update with wi-fi, or using a computer if you have storage or connectivity issues. If the update listed is not equal to or higher than the iOS version you need to use a feature, you will need to buy newer equipment is you want to use that feature.

"Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT204204

The tags appended to post might suggest that you have an iPad4 with iOS10.x installed.

If your iPad is currently running, or cannot be updated beyond iOS 10.3.3/4, then you have an iPad4.

Update support for iPad4 ended September 2017. The final iOS releases for this model were iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only models) and iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular). iPad4 cannot be updated to any later major version of iOS as it lacks the minimum hardware requirements needed to run more recent versions.

Many App Developers have also dropped support for older devices and iOS versions preceding iOS12 - and have withdrawn older versions of their Apps from the Apple App Store. Withdrawal of Apps supporting older models of iPad is making their utility and usefulness significantly more limited.

If Apps that you need to use now have higher minimum iOS-version requirements, your only option is to replace your iPad with newer model. Even the basic current iPad8 supports current iPadOS 14.4 - and has hardware specifications that will vastly outperform your old iPad4.

I hope this information is helpful - if only in clearly stating your current options.