Apple has released iPadOS 18, the latest iteration of its tablet operating system, which is now available for public and developer testing. The update introduces significant artificial intelligence integrations under the "Apple Intelligence" banner, system-wide customization features, and a dedicated Calculator app. Compatible devices include the iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation and later), and various iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini models released from 2019 onward.
Which iPad models support iPadOS 18?
Apple confirmed that iPadOS 18 supports a broad range of hardware, focusing on devices equipped with modern silicon capable of handling advanced machine learning tasks. According to the official Apple support documentation, the following devices are eligible for the update:
- iPad Pro (M4)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation and later)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Air (M2)
- iPad Air (5th generation)
- iPad Air (4th generation)
- iPad (10th generation)
- iPad (9th generation)
- iPad (8th generation)
- iPad (7th generation)
- iPad mini (6th generation)
- iPad mini (5th generation)
Users can verify their specific model by navigating to Settings > General > About.
How to install the iPadOS 18 developer beta
The developer beta is currently available for users enrolled in the Apple Developer Program. To install the software, users must navigate to Settings > General > Software Update on their iPad. Once there, tapping "Beta Updates" allows the selection of the "iPadOS 18 Developer Beta."
Apple recommends that users back up their devices to iCloud or a computer before installing beta software, as these versions may contain bugs or compatibility issues with third-party applications.
Key features and system changes
The primary focus of this update is the integration of Apple Intelligence, a personal intelligence system that combines generative models with personal context. According to Apple’s keynote announcements, this includes system-wide writing tools for summarizing and proofreading text, as well as an overhauled Siri that features improved natural language understanding and screen awareness.
Beyond AI, the update addresses long-standing user requests:
- Calculator App: For the first time, iPad features a native Calculator app, which includes “Math Notes” for solving equations written by hand with an Apple Pencil.
- Customization: Users can now place app icons anywhere on the Home Screen grid and apply a new dark mode tint to icons.
- Control Center: The interface has been redesigned to allow for more flexible layouts and third-party app integration.
Regional availability and limitations
While the features are rolling out globally, not all functionalities will be available in every region. Apple has stated that certain Apple Intelligence features will be limited by local regulatory environments. For instance, the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) has led Apple to delay the release of specific AI-driven features in that region due to concerns regarding interoperability and data privacy requirements. Users in the EU should check local support pages for updates on feature availability.