Obsolete iPad? What now? - Apple Community (2024)

FAQs

What happens when an iPad is obsolete? ›

If you have an obsolete or outdated iPad, it may be unable to run the newest apps or update existing apps. In a technical sense, an obsolete device is one that the manufacturer no longer supports. Here's a list of iPads that are no longer supported or discontinued but supported.

It's also possible to turn old iPads into security cameras, smart home hubs, digital picture frames, secondary monitors, and more. Keep reading to learn about some creative ways that may make you want to keep that old tablet around. Keep using it as a secondary tablet!

Your iPad automatically works to provide the best possible performance as the battery chemically ages. Your iPad monitors its power needs and manages performance to address those needs. While performance effects are reduced as much as possible, battery aging might still lead to noticeable, possibly temporary, effects.

The oldest model Apple makes that is still able to install iPadOS 18 is from 2018, but assuming that Apple continues support of iPadOS 16 until September 2025, the decade-old 1st gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro from 2015 will still be supported for another year, as will the 2016 9.7-inch iPad Pro and the 2017 iPad (5th gen).

You might not be aware that there's a real danger in using an iPad for too long. If a device can no longer run the latest version of Apple's iPadOS operating system, it will miss out on a lot of critical security updates. Vulnerabilities that remain unpatched can put you at risk.

If there isn't enough space to download and install an update, the software on your device will try to make space. It will remove only app data that it can download again and doesn't remove or relocate any of your data. If your device still doesn't have enough space, you can use your computer to update your device.

With Apple's trade-in program, you can swap an older device to cover part of the cost of a new product or you can even turn your old iPhone, iPad, or other piece of hardware into an Apple gift card. You can do an Apple trade-in online or in person at an Apple store.

With Apple Trade In, you can get a great value for your current device and apply it toward a new one. And you can do it all online or at an Apple Store. If your device isn't eligible for credit, we'll recycle it for free. It's a great deal for you and the planet.

Safely Disposing Old iPads

If your device isn't eligible for credits, Apple will still recycle your iPad for free. You can also check for e-waste facilities, sell, or donate your device. Just be sure to backup your files first.

Thanks to an iPad's long battery life and its minimal power consumption while in Sleep Mode, most users leave them on perpetually, and charge them before they have the chance to run out of battery power. But for many reasons, it's a good idea to turn your iPad fully off when you know you won't be using it for a while.

Is it okay to leave an iPad charging overnight? ›

There is no “memory effect” like older Nickel Cadmium batteries, so you can charge your iPad anytime you want and even leave it on a charger overnight. The battery will also charge very rapidly, to about 80% in a few hours, while the last 20% is more of a trickle charge and takes longer.

Your iPad should last at least 5 years. But your device can last even longer depending on: Your iPad model. A newer iPad Pro or iPad Air, which has more storage and features, will likely last longer than an older or lower-end model.

In general, Apple Products hold their value extremely well. And iPads specifically hold their value even better than most other Apple products. With that said, all electronics lose value over time. So no matter which iPad you own, the best time to sell your used iPad is now.

When an iPhone becomes obsolete, it means Apple will no longer support it. This means you can't get it repaired and it rarely receives iOS security updates—if ever. This is a big deal as if your iPhone doesn't receive updates, there is no way of keeping it secure.

Your iPad should last at least 5 years. But your device can last even longer depending on: Your iPad model. A newer iPad Pro or iPad Air, which has more storage and features, will likely last longer than an older or lower-end model.

ecoATM is a reliable and environmentally beneficial option for trading in or selling your outdated electronics, such as iPads, smartphones, and other gadgets, and getting the most cash for them. Our goal is to promote electronic device recycling and reuse in order to build a more sustainable future.

Every year, Apple releases a new version of its operating system, the base level of software (now called iPadOS). As this gets ever more capable and resource-intensive, older models of iPads simply can't keep up, so Apple cuts off support at some point.