Updating iPadOS 16: Preparation is key
Updating your iPad to iPadOS 16. Sounds simple. Download, install, done. But in practice, it's more complicated. Compatibility issues, lost data, crashing apps—the horror stories keep piling up. Yet, thousands of people click "install now" every day without thinking. That's precisely where things go wrong. Because a successful update isn't about avoiding problems, but about being smart about preparing for them. With the right iPad Pro and accessories, you can turn a potential nightmare into a breeze. Forget the standard Apple manuals. This article gives you the real steps that work—including the tricks Apple doesn't tell you.
Useful links
- Refurbished iPad collection - compatible models for iPadOS 16
- iPad Pro refurbished - powerful tablets for optimal performance
- Accessories - Essential accessories for your iPad
The reality of updating iPadOS 16
Updating an iPad to iPadOS 16 seems like a piece of cake. Yet, for many users, it turns into a digital nightmare. Apps that no longer launch, files that disappear, a tablet that becomes slower than an old Windows PC. These problems aren't inevitable. With the right preparation, you can prevent most of the misery.
The root of the problem isn't Apple's software. It's the automatic update reflex many users have developed. They click "install now" without even considering the consequences. This article gives you the practical steps that actually work.
Compatibility Check: The First Hurdle
iPadOS 16 doesn't run on all tablets. Apple has significantly increased the system requirements. These models are compatible:
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
- iPad (5th generation and later)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Do you have an older model? Then your update adventure ends here. This doesn't have to be a disaster. Many older tablets work perfectly well with their current operating system. Still want the latest features? Consider a refurbished model. These devices offer modern specifications without the high price tag.
Preparations that Apple is keeping secret
Free up space
The update requires at least 5 GB of free space. In reality, 10 GB is better. The system creates temporary files during installation. These will disappear later, but without sufficient space, the update will fail.
Check your storage space in Settings > General > iPad Storage. Delete large apps you don't use. You can redownload movies and TV shows later. Temporarily store photos and videos in the cloud.
Backup strategy
Backing up isn't an option; it's a requirement. Apple's standard iCloud backup is fine, but it has limitations. The free 5GB is often insufficient. Here are three alternatives:
- iTunes/Finder backup : Connect your tablet to a computer. This method makes a complete copy of everything, including app data and settings.
- External storage : Use a USB flash drive or external drive with a Lightning/USB-C port. Copy important files manually.
- Cloud services : Combine iCloud with Google Drive or Dropbox to spread the risk.
Check apps
Not all apps will work with iPadOS 16 right away. Check beforehand whether your essential apps are compatible. You can do this by opening the App Store and going to the updates section. Developers often mention compatibility issues in the update notes.
Business apps deserve extra attention. Banking apps, authentication tools, and work-related software may become temporarily unusable. Contact the vendor if you have any doubts.
The installation: step by step
Timing is everything
Choose the right time for the update. Not right before an important presentation or during your vacation. Plan for at least two hours. The download takes 30 minutes, and the installation another 45 minutes. Add troubleshooting time to that.
Connect your tablet to the charger. A dead battery during the update is guaranteed to cause problems. Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection. Mobile data isn't an option for this size.
The update process
- Open Settings > General > Software Update
- Please download the update completely before installing
- Read the release notes - they contain known issues
- Start the installation when your tablet is connected to power
- Do not touch the device during the process
The tablet will restart several times. This is normal. The Apple logo will appear with a progress bar. This can remain still for several minutes. Patience is essential.
Troubleshooting after the update
Performance issues
Is your tablet feeling sluggish after the update? This is due to background processes running for the first few days. The system is reindexing files, optimizing photos, and syncing data. Give the device 48 hours to recover.
Are the problems persisting? Reset your network settings via Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This resolves many syncing issues.
Apps that crash
Some apps need to be reinstalled. Completely delete the problematic app. Download it again from the App Store. Your app data usually remains stored in iCloud.
Battery drains quickly
Battery life may be disappointing during the first week. The system is running additional processes in the background. Temporarily disable unnecessary features:
- Background app refresh
- Automatic downloads
- Hey Siri
After a week, the battery life stabilizes again.
Make the most of new features
iPadOS 16 brings Stage Manager for improved multitasking. This feature only works on models with an M1 chip or later. External displays are now fully supported. Your tablet becomes a mini workstation.
The Weather app is finally here. Freeform offers an infinite whiteboard for brainstorming sessions. Live Text now works in videos. These features do require modern hardware for optimal performance.
The reality of refurbished
Considering a new tablet for iPadOS 16? A refurbished model offers the same functionality for a fraction of the price. These devices have been professionally refurbished and tested. They come with a warranty and support all the latest features.
The difference compared to new? Minimal. The performance is identical. The software runs just as smoothly. You'll save hundreds of euros that you could better spend on accessories. A keyboard or Apple Pencil makes more of a difference than a brand new device.
Conclusion: prepared is warned
A successful update to iPadOS 16 is all about preparation. Check compatibility, make backups, clean up, and choose the right time. Problems are solvable with patience and the right approach. The new features make the effort more than worth it, especially on modern hardware.
Conclusion: Smart updating prevents problems
Updating iPadOS 16 doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right preparation— backing up, freeing up space, checking apps —you can avoid most problems. Give your tablet a few days to adjust after the update. Performance issues usually resolve themselves. Is your current model no longer working? A refurbished iPad offers all the benefits of the new software without the hefty price tag. Most importantly: take your time and don't just click "install now." An hour of preparation will save you days of frustration.
