User level: Level 1 (9 points)Hi. I’d like to know if it’s a good idea to update to iPadOS 27 directly from the iPadOS 18 version I’m currently on, skipping the iPadOS 26 update entirely. Thanks in advance.
Posted on Sep 16, 2026 7:29 PM
User level: Level 10 (334,506 points)Sep 17, 2026 2:04 AM in response to navyseals64
If you are still running iPadOS 18.x on an iPad that is capable of update to iPadOS 27, you may find that an update to iPadOS 26 is not available to you. As such, should you choose to update your iPad, you may have no alternative other than to skip iPadOS 26.
There is no technical benefit whatsoever in first updating to iPadOS 26 before updating to iPadOS 27. When performing a major version update, the Operating System is completely replaced.
You make no mention of your iPad model. For information, these models of iPad are all able to be updated to iPadOS 27:
User level: Level 10 (122,944 points)Sep 16, 2026 7:48 PM in response to navyseals64
You can if your iPad supports iPadOS 27.
Do a backup.
User level: Level 2 (338 points)Sep 17, 2026 4:35 AM in response to navyseals64
Yeah sure! You will find an update to iPadOS 26.7 but scroll down, you will find the iPadOS 27 upgrade option and there will be absolutely no irritating bugs, it is my guarantee. You will find occasional lags and freezes but they are not going to affect your daily tasks and life.
User level: Level 10 (334,506 points)Sep 18, 2026 1:57 AM in response to navyseals64
navyseals64 wrote:
Thanks for the comprehensive explanation. Just so you know, there are two iPads: an M4 Pro and a Mini 7. You’re right—there’s no alternative but to update directly from iPadOS 18 to 27. Thanks again.
You're very welcome.
Updating from iPadOS 18 to 27 will be a step-change - that may take a little time to adjust some of your accustomed workflows. With a little patience and practice, you'll find the changes to be fluid and intuitive as your "muscle memory" adapts. It won't be long before you wonder why you stuck with iPadOS 18.
User level: Level 10 (201,695 points)Sep 17, 2026 9:10 AM in response to aashmansingh_4
aashmansingh_4 wrote:
you will find the iPadOS 27 upgrade option and there will be absolutely no irritating bugs, it is my guarantee.
You cannot guarantee that.
User level: Level 1 (9 points)Sep 17, 2026 7:02 PM in response to LotusPilot
Thanks for the comprehensive explanation. Just so you know, there are two iPads: an M4 Pro and a Mini 7. You’re right—there’s no alternative but to update directly from iPadOS 18 to 27. Thanks again.
User level: Level 1 (9 points)Sep 17, 2026 7:05 PM in response to aashmansingh_4
Thanks for the help and the prompt reply!!
Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256358634