Finally, the iPad can run on its own operating system, iPadOS. It will no longer feel like an iPhone with a larger screen when you use it. Last year, the new operating system was announced at the Apple World Wide Developer Conference.

The new OS is a kind of iOS derivation with better design and more power, especially when it comes to multitasking. Unfortunately, users who bought an iPad before 2019 may not be able to have iPadOS as default. You have to install it manually. How to get iPadOS on iPad?

iPadOS Compatibility

Having iPadOS seems interesting, especially if you use the iPad for productivity instead of using it for browsing, socializing, or entertainment purposes only. Unfortunately, not all iPad versions can get iPadOS. If you don’t find your iPad on the list below, it means your device is incompatible with getting iPadOS.

• iPad Air 2 and 3
• iPad Mini 4 and 5
• iPad (6th and 7th generations)
• 9.7-inch iPad Pro
• 10.5-inch iPad Pro
• 11-inch iPad Pro
• 12.9-inch iPad Pro

How To Get iPadOS on iPad

Backup

Installing iPadOS on an iPad is not hard work at all. But don’t you ever start the process before doing a backup. Otherwise, you risk losing your essential data on the iPad. There are several ways to back up your data. If you want to do it faster, use iCloud. You can also back up on a Mac using iTunes.

To do an iCloud backup, you need to connect the iPad to WiFi. Then, go to the Settings of your iPad, tap on your name, and choose iCloud. Scroll down to find iCloud Backup and tap on it. Make sure the button next to iCloud Backup is enabled or green-colored on the Backup screen. Lastly, tap the Back Up Now option.

To back up on a Mac or PC, ensure you have the latest iTunes version if you are using an older macOS or PC. First, connect the iPad to a Mac or PC using a USB to lightning cable. Open iTunes or open Finder for macOS Catalina users. Select your iPad in the sidebar, click the General tab (for Catalina), and click Back Up Now. For older macOS users, you can jump directly to Back Up Now.

Installing iPadOS on iPad

To get the iPadOS on your iPad, you will only need a few steps and minutes. Just make sure you have a good internet connection. Also, ensure your iPad has at least 50% of its battery life. Otherwise, connect it to a power source.

1. On the iPad home screen, tap Settings.
2. Choose General and tap Software Update. 
3. When you see the availability of iPadOS on the screen, tap Download and Install.
4. Wait until the installation process is done.