I have a first-generation 11-inch iPad Pro running iPadOS 16. It still works well, but an app now requires iPadOS 17 or later. The iPad offers iPadOS 18.7.8 as an alternative to iPadOS 26, which I was hoping to avoid because I've heard newer versions can cause lag on this model. I have plenty of free storage and a reliable internet connection, but the update fails every time after reaching the end of the download. I've already deleted the update file and restarted the iPad. I also installed the Apple Devices app on my PC, but it only offers iPadOS 26.6. Is there a way to install iPadOS 18 without using a computer, or can it be installed through the PC instead?
2 Answers
Before erasing anything, make sure your iCloud or computer backup is current. A last-resort troubleshooting step is to erase the iPad, set it up temporarily as new without restoring a backup, and check for the update before signing back in. If iPadOS 18 is offered, install it, then erase the device again and restore your data. This is inconvenient, so it’s worth confirming the signing status and trying Apple Support first.
The important detail is whether iPadOS 18 is still being signed for this exact iPad model. If it is no longer signed, the update may still appear under “also available,” but it cannot actually be installed. In that case, the only supported upgrade path is the newer version offered by the device or Apple Devices app.
That’s what’s confusing me—the iPad does show iPadOS 18 under an “also available” section, while the main option is iPadOS 26.
I’m currently on iPadOS 16. Is there any way to fix the failed update without doing a factory reset? I’d really prefer not to erase the iPad unless necessary.