Question by Fuzzy: iPad: Can the iPad update its OS without having a computer to download and interface for it?
I have the iTouch. When a new OS comes out, it is downloaded via the iTunes program and uploaded into the iTouch via the iTunes program. It does not to my knowledge have the ability to upgrade its own OS.
Is the iPad also dependent on a “mother” computer and iTunes on that computer to update its OS?
Best answer:
Answer by HondaMan
I have 2 iPhones and an iPod and have used iTunes for about 6 yrs now. You are only able to get software updates via syncing with iTunes. As far as I know it is only possible to update apps from the device itself- although you can also do that through iTunes, too. So to answer your question specifically… YES… you need iTunes for Mac or PC- they’re both free 🙂 Hope this helps!
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
Yes. How would it upgrade itself with such limited memory? It’s necessary to download the software before you can actually upgrade… Where would they put that 3.4 kb file if all your memory was taken? Lots of ranting, but I hope you see my point.
All iOS device are dependent on itunes for updates
Yep, iPad is tethered to iTunes right now just like the other iDevices. BUT rumors abound that in a future iOS update Apple is looking to make the iOS incrementally update like other mobile devices, so instead of installing the entire iOS again you only download the updated files and can do that over wifi or 3G. It has to do with (I think) some cloud-based services going live, so it’s not possible right now, may not be possible for several more iOS versions.
The iPad is updated the same way as the iTouch and iPhone.