How to Download and Install iPadOS 18 Free [Hot Guide]

by Sophie Green   Updated on 2024-09-09 / Update for  iOS 18

Ready to try iPadOS 18 before everyone else? The good news is you don’t have to wait for too long to try out the cool features the update has to offer! Get a taste of the future with iPadOS 18 version, rumored to have exciting advancements like generative AI, smarter Siri, and so much more. Sounds interesting?

In this article, we'll show you how to download and install iPadOS 18 version, even if you don't have a developer account. We’ve got three free ways to download the version safely. We’ve answered some of your frequently asked questions in the end, so you can have a hassle-free experience with the new update.

iPadOS 18 download

Part 1: Which Devices Support iPadOS 18?

Before moving onto the iPadOS 18 download, it’s important to check whether your iPad is compatible with the iPadOS 18. Apple officially announces supported devices alongside the public release of a new iPadOS version. However, based on the information we have, here’s a list of the iPad models that will most likely run the iPadOS:

  • iPad: 7th generation and newer (2019 and later)
  • iPad Mini: 5th generation and newer (2019 and later)
  • iPad Air: 3rd generation and newer (2019 and later)
  • iPad Pro: 3rd generation and newer (2019 and later)

Part 2: How to Download and Install iPadOS 18 [3 Free Ways]

Now that you know if your iPad is compatible with the new iPadOS 18, let us tell you how to download and install iPadOS 18. We’re going to share three free ways you can download iPadOS 18 on your iPad.

Way 1: Download and Install iPadOS 18 in Software Update

This is a simple and straight-forward way to iPadOS 18 download and doesn't require a developer account. However, Apple may not immediately release the public profile, so this option might become available some time later.

Before downloading the version, it is important that you create a backup of your data. This will give you a safe space in case you want to go back to iOS 17 later on.

Here's how to download and install the iPadOS 18 directly through Software Update once the public profile becomes available:

  • Go to Settings on your iPad. Tap on General.
  • Then tap on Software Update.
  • Look for any updates available. If the public is available, you should see the iPadOS 18 update here. Click on Update Now to install iPadOS 18.

    iPadOS 18 software update

Way 2: Download and Install iPadOS 18 with Developer Account

Want to get your hands on the iPadOS 18 even before the public release? This method offers earlier access to the iPadOS 18 compared to the public method (as explained in Way 1). Remember that developers are primarily intended for developers to test their apps with the new software. They might be less stable than publics.

If you’re enrolled in the Apple Developer Program, follow these steps to install the iPadOS 18:

1. Open the Safari app on your iPad. Go to the Apple Developer website at developer.apple.com.

2. Log in using your Apple ID associated with the developer account subscription.

3. Tap on Install Profile to install iPadOS 18 profile. Click “Allow” to confirm downloading the profile.

4. Once the download is complete, head to your iPad's Settings app and look for the "Profile Downloaded" option.

5. Tap on the downloaded profile and then tap "Install" in the top right corner. The downloaded profile might require a restart. Tap "Restart.”

After restarting your iPad, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. You should now see the iPadOS 18 update available. Tap "Download and Install".

Way 3: Download and Install iPadOS 18 Profile Directly

Another way you can install iPadOS 18 is via iPadOS 18 profile download. The good thing about this method is it doesn’t require a Developer account.

Before you proceed, be cautious as downloading the profiles from untrusted sources can put your device at risk. The safest way to install iPadOSs is through official channels provided by Apple. This ensures you get genuine profiles and the latest, most stable version.

If you decide to proceed with this method, it’s important you choose a trusted source for iPadOS 18 public profile download. Below are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Go toprofiles.com and download the iPadOS 18 profile.

Step 2: Go to Settings on your iPad and install the downloaded profile.

Step 3: You can now install the iPadOS 18 via Settings > General > Software Update.

Part 3: Download and Install iPadOS 18 via Computer without Getting Stuck

The methods mentioned above cover the ways to install iPadOS 18. However, it is common for versions to have glitches and bugs. If you encounter issues when installing the update, Tenorshare ReiBoot has the solution.

It allows you to update your iPhone or iPad without the risk of getting stuck. Wanna install iPadOS 18 without developer account? Follow these steps:

  • Download and install Tenorshare ReiBoot on your Windows or Mac computer. Once installed, launch the software and connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Click on “iOS Upgrade/Downgrade.”

    launch reiboot
  • You will be provided with two options on the screen, i.e. Upgrade and Downgrade. Since you want to install the iOS 18, select "Upgrade.”

     advanced mode
  • Click on "Download" to download the latest firmware package. Tenorshare ReiBoot will automatically search for the latest iOS 18 firmware package.

    download firmware
  • You'll see the upgrade initiated. This will take a few minutes to complete.

    start upgrade

    Click Done when it’s finished. Your iPhone will automatically reboot with the new iOS 18 installed.

    upgrade completed

FAQs about iPadOS 18

Q1: Is iPadOS 18 safe?

Technically, all versions carry some inherent risk. Since they're pre-release software, they might contain bugs, instabilities, or compatibility issues with certain apps. These could potentially impact your iPad's performance.

Q2: Should I download iPadOS?

It depends. If you want to experience the features of the new update or give feedback to help improve the iPadOS, you should definitely download it. However, updates can have bugs and glitches which may impact your iPad’s performance. So if that’s not what you want, you should wait for the iPadOS 18 update.

Q3: When can I download iPadOS 18 public?

Apple typically releases the public profile a few weeks after the developer. An official announcement regarding the public release date is usually made during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. Keep an eye on Apple's official website or relevant news sources for announcements about the iPadOS 18 public release.

Conclusion

The next generation of iPad software is almost here! If you wanna get your hands on the update early, we’ve explained three free ways on how to download and install iPadOS 18. Scared of bugs and glitches within the update? Try Tenorshare ReiBoot and have a stress-free experience with the new update.