Update the software on iPad

Occasionally, you will get a notification saying that a software update is available on your iPad. You may be wondering, what updates? Is this important or necessary? Regular updates on your iPads are important and the primary purpose of updates is to fix any bugs or glitches. Sometimes there are larger updates that change the look of the operating system and some people do not like larger updates as they don’t want the look of the device to change. Remember that the main purpose of the larger updates is not to make it harder for you to use it but make it easier and safer for you to use in the long-run!

Whether it is a large update or a small one, it is extremely important to complete these updates to ensure your iPad is working the way it should. Now let’s learn how to complete a software update.


How to complete a software update

Scroll down and click on the play button on the video to start it. The play button looks something like this.

Remember: you can rewind and pause the video if you need to.

Play Button

Thank you, Agent! It is great to know how to complete software updates since they are so important for a device! If you would like to review the steps, they are listed below.

Step 1: Locate and tap on the Settings app icon on the home screen.

iPad home screen with the Settings app circled in red to show how to open the Settings app

Step 2: On the menu on the left-side of the screen, tap on the option titled General.

Settings menu with General highlighted on left-side of the screen

Step 3: A menu will open on the right-side of the screen. Tap on the option titled Software Updates. If you have an update it will appear on the screen.

General menu with Software Update highlighted to show how to check for a software update on iPad

Step 4: Tap on Download and Install. You will then be asked to put in your passcode if you have one, and then accept the terms and conditions. Once you have completed these steps, the installation will begin. Once the installation is complete, the device will restart and you can continue to use your device as you normally do!

Software update with Download and Install highlighted in center of the screen to show how to complete a software update.

Helpful Hint

  • When there is a new software update, there will be a red circle beside the words Software Update with the number 1 on it.