Special version of iPadOS 17.5.1 for one iPad model

Surprising update: Apple presents a new version of iPadOS, but only for a specific series. Why remains a mystery.

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Apple iPad 10

(Image: Apple)

2 min. read
This article was originally published in German and has been automatically translated.

No, you're not experiencing déjà vu: iPad 10 owners have been receiving an update called iPadOS 17.5.1 for their devices since Monday - even if iPadOS 17.5.1 is already installed on the tablet. However, the update is currently not displayed in the system settings, as is usual, but only when the iPad is connected to the Mac via cable or Wi-Fi and then selected in the Finder. A new build number is then offered.

This build number of iPadOS 17.5.1 is now 21F91, the previously distributed build was 21F90, exactly one build older. Apple does not provide any information about what has changed and why you should install the update. There is also no information on security fixes so far. However, the company must have reasons for the distribution, which is why the offer should be accepted. It is still unclear whether the update will also be offered via system settings (over-the-air via 5G or Wi-Fi) in the foreseeable future.

iPadOS 17.5.1 fixed an extremely unpleasant problem in which photos deleted years ago suddenly reappeared in the Photos app. Apple stated that this was due to a database problem and that the information was not in Apple's cloud storage. Nevertheless, the error unsettled many users, as "deleted is deleted" apparently did not apply here.

Entry-level model is supplied, other iPads are not

iPadOS 17.5.1 was officially released on May 20. The new build 21F91 does not appear on any iPad other than the iPad 10, Apple's current entry-level tablet model. This has not yet been explained either. As mentioned, download and installation are currently only possible via a computer to which the iPad 10 is connected. In the Finder, go to the device in the sidebar.

Then go to the "General" section, where you can check for the update if it is not displayed immediately. Under Windows, use iTunes or the Apple device app to initiate the process. Here too, the tablet must be connected directly to the computer. This is possible via USB or WLAN.

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