Is iPadOS 16 Compatible with the 2015 iPad Pro?

The release of iPadOS 16 in October 2022 brought a wealth of new features and improvements to modern iPads, including the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pros. However, for many older iPad users, one question remains: Will the 2015 iPad Pro be able to run iPadOS 16?

Current Status of iPadOS 16 and the 2015 iPad Pro

As of October 2022, the 2015 iPad Pro is limited to iPadOS 15 and earlier versions. This is because Apple typically stops supporting older devices with each new release of iOS/iPadOS. iPadOS 16, launched in October 2022, is no different. Since the 2015 iPad Pro is not compatible with the more recent 64bit architecture required by iPadOS 16, it cannot run this version of the operating system.

Will the 2015 iPad Pro Receive Future iPadOS Updates?

While the 2015 iPad Pro will miss out on iPadOS 16, it is worth discussing whether it will receive further updates in the future. Apple has a history of providing extended support for older devices, often spanning several years after their initial release. This support period typically ranges from 4 to 7 years, depending on the device and its compatibility with the 64bit system.

Let's take a look at some historical data from past releases:

The iPad Air 2 Example

The iPad Air 2, launched in 2014, received updates well beyond its initial release. As of 2022, it is still receiving regular updates, including iPadOS 15. If it continues to receive updates, it could eventually get iPadOS 16.

By the time the 2015 iPad Pro receives its update cycle’s end, it may have received up to 8 years of major iOS/iPadOS updates. This timeline would extend from its launch in 2015 to the release of iPadOS 16, making it a highly likely candidate for receiving updates.

Historical Support Patterns

Historically, Apple has shown a pattern of providing consistent updates to older devices. For instance, back in 2011, the iPad 2 was still receiving iOS 8 and 9 updates well after the release of iOS 8. Similarly, the iPad 3 and iPad 4 kept receiving updates for several years, extending their support life.

Given this pattern, it is reasonable to assume that the 2015 iPad Pro will receive iPadOS 15 and potentially iPadOS 16 in 2022.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The 2015 iPad Pro, while missing out on iPadOS 16, could still receive future updates, provided they align with the 64bit architecture. Users interested in extended support might want to keep an eye out for any new releases that could be compatible with older hardware.