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iPad 3 os

My dad has an iPad mini 3. It’s on iOS 9.3.5. But it says the software is up to date.


iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi

Posted on Jun 28, 2021 2:02 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 28, 2021 2:37 AM

Perhaps it's not an iPad Mini 3rd generation (which supports iOS 12.5.4).

It might just be an iPad 3rd generation, which doesn't support iOS versions more recent than the one currently running on it, because of hardware (CPU/RAM) incompatibility.


Please check better, using this support page:--> Identify your iPad model - Apple Support

Regards

Giulio


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 28, 2021 2:37 AM in response to Whitecloud74

Perhaps it's not an iPad Mini 3rd generation (which supports iOS 12.5.4).

It might just be an iPad 3rd generation, which doesn't support iOS versions more recent than the one currently running on it, because of hardware (CPU/RAM) incompatibility.


Please check better, using this support page:--> Identify your iPad model - Apple Support

Regards

Giulio


Jun 28, 2021 6:09 AM in response to Whitecloud74

If iOS 9.3.5 is installed, then you definitely do not have an iPad mini3. iPad mini models are frequently mis-identified. With iOS 9.3.5, you must have a first generation iPad mini.


Not sure which iPad you have? Identify your iPad model.


iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 can only be updated to iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models) or iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular models). Apple ended update support for these models in September 2016. Your iPad cannot be updated to iOS 10 or later major versions of iOS, as the internal hardware does not meet the minimum technical requirements for new versions of iOS/iPadOS. This limitation cannot be bypassed; these are 32-bit architecture devices, whilst all recent versions of iOS/iPadOS are designed for 64-bit hardware platforms. iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 are all obsolete.


You may wish to consider that compatible Apps for your iPad are increasingly difficult to find - as third-party developers are increasingly dropping support for 32-bit devices and iOS versions preceding iOS11/12/13. As older versions of Apps are removed from the Apple App Store, you’ll not be able to (re)download or install them - which may severely limit the usefulness and utility of your iPad. As such, if you want or need to access most current Apps, requiring more recent versions of iOS, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad with a newer or current model.


Of current models, even the entry-level iPad8 has specifications and capabilities that will massively outperform you current iPad - and is compatible with the vast majority of current Apps. Other models are more powerful still.


I hope this information provides helpful and succinct clarity as to your available options - and the fundamental limitations of your current iPad.


iPad 3 os

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