If your tablet shows Model A2602, that means iPad (9th-gen, Wi-Fi)—still eligible for iPadOS 26.
To confirm, open Settings › General › About and tap Model Number; if you need a refresher, see our quick primer on checking your iPad’s model. iPadOS 26 already has a follow-up build, so it’s smart to jump straight to iPadOS 26.0.1 for the latest security fix.
On A13 hardware you get the headline iPadOS 26 updates—UI polish, app tweaks, and stability—while some heavy on-device AI features stay reserved for newer chips. If you hit odd behavior after updating, keep an eye on our running notes for iPadOS 26 issues and fixes.
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Apple also pushed a full set of companion updates: iOS 26.0.1 for iPhone, tvOS 26.0.1 (addresses an audio sync quirk), HomePod Software 26.0.1, watchOS 26.0.2, and visionOS 26.0.1.
Bottom line: update your A2602 to stay secure; keep it if it still fits your workflow. If you want the newest on-device AI and a longer runway, compare the current base iPad and an M-series iPad Air before you upgrade.
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