I need to update my iPad Air 2 to iOS 16

The iPad Air2 cannot be updated beyond iPadOS 15.7.x - the most recent version being iPadOS 15.7.1.

Here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by older models of iPad (for simplicity - “generations” are shortened to a number) that are restricted in their ability to be updated:

32-bit devices

iPad1 - iOS 5.1.1

iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 - iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad4 - iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only), iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)

64-bit devices

iPad Air1, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3 - iOS 12.5.6

iPad Air2, iPad mini4 - iPadOS 15.7.1

Newer models are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 16.1

• iPad Pro (all models)
• iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
• iPad (5th generation and later)
• iPad mini (5th generation and later)

If your iPad is capable of being updated to a more recent version of iOS/iPadOS than is currently installed, these support pages outline both the available methods by which the update can be performed - and troubleshooting should you experience difficulties:

Update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch won’t update - Apple Support

iOS update and restore errors – Apple Support

Be aware that while an iPad may be capable of update, it may be too far behind the current version to be updated directly from iPad settings. Similarly, performing the update using a computer will often be the most effective method to resolve update issues. In such circumstances you will need to use a computer to perform the update. You will need access to either a Windows PC (with iTunes for windows installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of MacOS). Ensure that your installed version of iTunes has been updated to the most recent version; the essential device drivers are included.

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support

Update software on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in iTunes on PC - Apple Support

If you have a beta profile installed, ensure this has been removed from your iPad - as, otherwise, installation of production software updates may be inhibited. This support page provides the necessary information to remove the beta from your iPad:

How to uninstall iOS beta software - Apple Support

You should note that for your iPad to install an available update, its battery must be charged to at least 50% capacity - and/or be connected to its Power Adapter. Similarly, the iPad can only be updated over a standard WiFi connection - or be updated by a PC or Mac using iTunes or Finder - over a USB connection.

Sorry, the iPad Air 2 cannot be updated beyond iPadOS 15.7.1.

If your is not already at 15.7.1, see instructions in the following Apple article: Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Not going to happen.

The 2014 iPad Air 2 is at the end of Apple's full support life at iPadOS 15.7.1.

Sorry.

That stated, third party app support will still continue for another 2-3 years, or so, until ALL third party app support will, eventually, come to its end.

So, you can keep using your 2014 iPad Air 2 for another 2-3 before considering another new iPad model.

That is a total of 10-11 years of device support.

Best of Luck to You!

That model isn't capable of 16 or above.

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