any way to update an old ipad?

I have an awesome, pristine ipad mini (A1432) that is basically nothing more than an internet browser now because none of the apps I use are compatible. Is there any way to update it? Seems a shame that it's still functional but useless.

iPad mini, iOS 9

Posted on Aug 1, 2022 11:58 AM

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Posted on Aug 1, 2022 12:00 PM

Sorry, but no. An original, iPad Mini, is simply too old, too underpowered, and lacks the hardware required to run the newer iPadOS versions. It's a testament to the quality of these devices that its functional, but the reality is old 32 bit devices with not enough RAM cannot run 64 bit software. Technology moves on.......

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Aug 1, 2022 12:00 PM in response to ninja45

Sorry, but no. An original, iPad Mini, is simply too old, too underpowered, and lacks the hardware required to run the newer iPadOS versions. It's a testament to the quality of these devices that its functional, but the reality is old 32 bit devices with not enough RAM cannot run 64 bit software. Technology moves on.......

Aug 1, 2022 03:43 PM in response to ninja45

Expanding upon Lobsterghost1’s summary…


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 need to consider that compatible Apps for your iPad are increasingly difficult to find - as App Developers have dropped all support for 32-bit devices and most for 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 than your iPad is capable, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad with a newer or current model.


Of current models, even the entry-level iPad9 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.


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any way to update an old ipad?

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