Apple has officially released iPadOS 26 and confirmed which iPad models will be able to run the new software. The update is a significant one, bringing a true windowing system, the new Preview app, and major Apple Intelligence features to the tablet lineup.
If you're wondering whether your iPad will make the cut, we've got the official list right here.
Apple has confirmed the following iPad models are compatible with iPadOS 26.
iPad Pro:
● iPad Pro (M4)
● iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd generation & later)
● iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st generation & later)
iPad Air:
● iPad Air (M3)
● iPad Air (M2)
● iPad Air (3rd generation & later)
iPad:
● iPad (A16)
● iPad (8th generation & later)
iPad mini:
● iPad mini (A17 Pro)
● iPad mini (5th generation & later)
To enable the more powerful new features, Apple is ending software support for the oldest compatible model. Based on the devices that support iPadOS 18, the following iPad will not be able to update to iPadOS 26:
● iPad (7th generation)
(Other models like the iPad Pro 10.5-inch and iPad 6th generation lost support in previous years.)
This year's update focuses heavily on pro-level features. The headline feature is a completely new windowing system that allows for resizing and overlapping app windows, much like on a Mac. The update also finally brings the Preview app to iPad for robust PDF and image markup, enhances the Files app, and even adds the Phone app for making calls.
Like its iPhone counterpart, iPadOS 26 is packed with new Apple Intelligence features. However, it's worth noting that the advanced AI tools will require an iPad with an M1 chip or newer to function.
iPadOS 26 is now available as a free software update. You can update from the Settings > General > Software Update menu on your iPad or you find direct links to iPadOS firmware here.
If you're wondering whether your iPad will make the cut, we've got the official list right here.
iPads That Will Get iPadOS 26
Apple has confirmed the following iPad models are compatible with iPadOS 26.
iPad Pro:
● iPad Pro (M4)
● iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd generation & later)
● iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st generation & later)
iPad Air:
● iPad Air (M3)
● iPad Air (M2)
● iPad Air (3rd generation & later)
iPad:
● iPad (A16)
● iPad (8th generation & later)
iPad mini:
● iPad mini (A17 Pro)
● iPad mini (5th generation & later)
iPads That Are Not Supported
To enable the more powerful new features, Apple is ending software support for the oldest compatible model. Based on the devices that support iPadOS 18, the following iPad will not be able to update to iPadOS 26:
● iPad (7th generation)
(Other models like the iPad Pro 10.5-inch and iPad 6th generation lost support in previous years.)
What's New in iPadOS 26?
This year's update focuses heavily on pro-level features. The headline feature is a completely new windowing system that allows for resizing and overlapping app windows, much like on a Mac. The update also finally brings the Preview app to iPad for robust PDF and image markup, enhances the Files app, and even adds the Phone app for making calls.
Like its iPhone counterpart, iPadOS 26 is packed with new Apple Intelligence features. However, it's worth noting that the advanced AI tools will require an iPad with an M1 chip or newer to function.
iPadOS 26 is now available as a free software update. You can update from the Settings > General > Software Update menu on your iPad or you find direct links to iPadOS firmware here.