iPad Pro 12.9 inch 3rd gen will no longer update

I have an iPad Pro, 12.9” 3rd gen, Model MTJ82LL/A, WiFi only. This is compatible with the new OS18.6 update.

I currently am stuck at OS18.2. I don’t mind, but my iPad wants to download updates even though I have disabled auto download/updates. Go figure.

I only use my iPad for controlling music, drawing with Procreate, and surfing the net.

My iPad doesn’t have cellular and I see the icon showing the iPad is trying to find a cellular connection.

I have followed all the tips, most recently connecting to my iMac (new) and update with iTunes. That doesn’t work. I get an error message, no code to be of help. I had already tried connecting to my iMac so I’m not using WiFi. No luck. I have deleted the OS 18.6 in iPad Storage (General Settings) …

I have been using Apple products since they hit the scene in the 80’s … and I can honestly say that this device / OS has been the most frustrating part of any iMac, iPhone or iPad I have owned. It would be nice if I could just turn off updates. I don’t need them. But as I said, my iPad will still start downloads on it’s own and even a full day later, it will stuck on “Verifying Update” until I force restart.

I’m not expecting any solutions, but I’m pretty sure I can’t be the only person that is experiencing this faulty behavior.