Logitech Rugged iPad Keyboard Cases. New Price + Back in Stock

iOS 18 & iPadOS 18 System Requirements

Written by Robert Baker
iPadOS 18 System Requirements


A Complete Guide to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 System Requirements

With the release of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, Apple has introduced a suite of new features, including enhanced customization, Apple Intelligence, and improved privacy measures. However, not every device will be able to support these updates. Below is a comprehensive look at which iPads and iPhones are compatible with these latest operating systems.

iPadOS 18 Compatibility Overview

Several iPad models can run iPadOS 18, with many benefiting from features like Apple Intelligence. Here’s a list of compatible iPads:

  1. iPad Pro (M1 and later, all sizes)
    • iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later)
    • iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
  2. iPad Air (3rd generation and later, including M1 models)
  3. iPad (7th generation and later)
  4. iPad mini (5th generation and later)

iPads featuring the M1 chip or later, such as the iPad Pro (2021), are fully equipped to take advantage of iPadOS 18’s advanced features, like Apple Intelligence.

iOS 18 Compatibility Overview

iOS 18 is available across a wide range of iPhones, going back to models released in 2018. Below is the complete list of iPhones that can run iOS 18:

  1. iPhone 16 Series (2024)
  2. iPhone 15 Series (2023)
  3. iPhone 14 Series (2022)
  4. iPhone 13 Series (2021)
  5. iPhone 12 Series (2020)
  6. iPhone 11 Series (2019)
  7. iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max (2018)
  8. iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generations, 2020 and 2022)

Older iPhones, such as the iPhone 8 and iPhone X, will not be compatible with iOS 18. These models were phased out with the introduction of iOS 17.

Minimum Hardware Requirements

For both iPads and iPhones, there are certain hardware specifications required to run iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 effectively:

  • Processor:
    • iPhones: Devices need to have at least the A12 Bionic chip, first introduced in the iPhone XR and iPhone XS models, to support iOS 18.
    • iPads: iPads with M1 chips or newer will benefit most from the full suite of features, such as Apple Intelligence.
  • Storage: It is recommended to have 5-10 GB of free storage space for a smooth installation process and to avoid performance slowdowns.

Advanced Features and Limitations

A standout feature in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, an AI-driven tool offering personalized recommendations and smart automation. However, this feature is only available on devices with the A17 Pro chip (iPhone 15 Pro series) or M1 chips on iPads.

Older models like the iPhone XR and iPhone SE (2nd generation) will still be able to run iOS 18 but may experience slower performance or be unable to access the more advanced features.

What to Consider Before Upgrading

Before upgrading to iOS 18 or iPadOS 18, make sure to prepare your device by:

  • Backing up your data: Use iCloud or a local backup solution to ensure your data is safe before updating.
  • Checking app compatibility: Some apps may not function as expected with the new operating system. Check for updates or compatibility details from app developers.
  • Managing storage: Ensure you have enough free space by removing unnecessary files or apps.

These steps will help you make the most of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, allowing your devices to run smoothly with the latest features.

 

Back to News