Does the iPad that you've been using for years suddenly feel quite old for modern times? Is your iPad struggling to keep up with apps and games? The sad reality is digital devices do not last forever.
iPads don't necessarily come with an expiration date. You can use it for as long as it is functional. However, there are some warning signs to watch out for. These signs would tell you when it's time to retire your old model and upgrade to a new one.
In this article, we have identified some of the warning signs to let you know when your iPad needs a replacement.
1. Outdated Operating System
Apple released an updated version of iPadOS regularly because operating systems must be upgraded from time to time in order to provide security patches and add new features, according to Gizmogrind. Aside from security improvements, it also comes with bug fixes.
However, sometimes your iPad is too old to be upgraded to the latest version of iPadOS. When this happens, you could be missing vital security patches. Likewise, an outdated iPadOS may not have access to the latest features and performance enhancement.
While Apple is pretty generous in supporting older models when it comes to new software updates, if your model doesn't fall under the compatibility list for the latest iPadOS, it's a sign that you need to upgrade your iPad.
2. iPad Apps Crash All the Time
As new iPad models improve, so do new apps and games. So, to keep up with the trend, it is necessary to upgrade to a new device. Older software stops working as operating systems get updated, according to Make Use Of.
It is important to have the latest version of iPadOS because keeping your apps up to date also brings new features, bug fixes, and security improvements. Therefore, consider a new iPad if your apps are crashing all the time or if you can no longer update them.
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3. Persistent Lack of Storage Space on Your iPad
Another sign that you need to upgrade your iPad to a new one is when you are consistently running out of storage. While it's normal to reach your storage limit once or twice, experiencing it frequently indicates that your storage can no longer keep up with the size of your installed apps.
If you're having trouble making space on your iPad and the standard techniques have failed, it's probably time to upgrade, according to ESR Gear. Apple typically increases the amount of built-in storage available with each new iPad model. For instance, the iPad Pro M1 comes with as much as 2TB of storage.
4. New iPad Accessories Are Incompatible
iPads have regular accessories such as cases and chargers. The problem is when Apple changes the iPad's design, you'll experience compatibility issues if you still choose to use your old model.
For instance, if your old 30-pin charger has finally worn out, you might find it difficult to find a genuine Apple replacement because most retailers only sell the modern USB-C charger. While you could check eBay and Amazon for suitable accessories, the best option is just to upgrade to a new model.
5. Poor Battery Performance
All iPads come with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. However, as you have experienced it in laptops, lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. The battery of iPads has a limited number of charge cycles.
Apple advertises that modern iPads have a 10-hour battery life while browsing the web over Wi-Fi. If you aren't getting anywhere close to this, perhaps it's time to upgrade your iPad.
