Compatibility
iPad Air (5th generation)
iPad Air (5th generation) shipped with iPadOS 16.1 and was released on March 18, 2022. The newest software it can install is iPadOS 27.2 beta.
Shipped with
iPadOS 16.1
Updates to
iPadOS 27.2 beta
- Released
- March 18, 2022
- Chip
- M1
- Identifier
- iPad13,16
- Colors
Frequently asked questions
What iPadOS version does iPad Air (5th generation) support?
iPad Air (5th generation) can update to iPadOS 27.2 beta. That is the newest version Apple offers for this model.
What version did iPad Air (5th generation) come with?
iPad Air (5th generation) shipped with iPadOS 16.1.
Which chip is in the iPad Air (5th generation)?
iPad Air (5th generation) uses the M1 chip.
What is the model identifier of iPad Air (5th generation)?
The model identifier is iPad13,16. You can match it against the Model Number shown in Settings → General → About.
Running the beta on this device
If iPad Air (5th generation) is still on Apple's compatibility list, you can install the current beta on it. Check Supported Devices to confirm, then follow our install guides. Devices that no longer receive major updates stay on iPadOS 27.2 beta.
Thinking of upgrading?
Wondering whether it's a good time to replace your iPad Air (5th generation)? The Buyer's Guide shows how long Apple's current models have been on sale and how long previous ones lasted, so you can tell whether to buy now or wait.


