iPadOS 26 is on the way, but Apple tablets won’t get it

More iPads that can’t receive the latest Apple software system updates might soon be on the way.

During Apple’s latest Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the company announced that it would be rebranding its software system, starting with a new name, iOS 26.

The change affected all of Apple's devices that should come out with iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 operating systems.

One Apple product that’s been waiting for a system update is the iPad. With the new OS update, the tablet is supposed to get a new interface with Liquid Glass visuals, the option to customize windows and files, and Apple Intelligence upgrades.

However, not all iPad models will be receiving updates that come with iPadOS 26, notes BGR.

The iPad models that will support iPadOS 26 include iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later), iPad Air (M3), iPad Air (M2), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (A16), iPad (8th generation and later), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad mini (5th generation and later).

While many of Apple’s tablets did make the cut, the one that didn’t is the 7th-generation iPad, which is supported by iPadOS 18. The reason behind this is related to the device’s hardware.

The 7th-generation iPad comes with an A10 chip, while iPadOS 26 requires an A12 or newer chip.

Only chips starting from A12 can support Apple Neural Engine, which is a series of AI accelerators for Apple’s machine learning.

The Apple Neural Engine plays an important role in AI. Considering this, even iPads that do have the Apple Neural Engine may also become “too old” for the latest iPadOS updates once they outgrow older AI accelerators.

Users will be able to update their operating system starting September 15th by selecting General > Software > Software Update. This will initialize a download of the latest version

Apple first presented its operating system revamp during WWDC 2025. The revamp should include not only the new look but also a number of features, such as automatic translation for messages and updates to Music, Notes, and CarPlay apps.