How to Install Apps on Old iPad 2, 3, 4, 5 and iPad Mini

 If you still have an old iPad lying around, you’ve probably noticed how hard it is to download apps from the App Store. When you try to install popular apps like YouTube, Netflix, or even basic tools, you often see a message saying “This app requires iOS 13/14/15 or later”. For iPad 2, 3, 4, 5, and the first-gen iPad mini, the latest iOS versions you can get are much lower — which means you’re stuck with compatibility issues.

But don’t worry. There are still ways to download and use apps on these older devices. In this guide, I’ll share the tricks that actually work so you can get the most out of your iPad again.

How to Install Apps on Old iPad 2, 3, 4, 5 and iPad Mini

Why Apps Don’t Download on Old iPads

Apple limits each iPad model to its maximum supported iOS version. For example:

1. iPad 2, 3, mini (1st gen): iOS 9.3.5/9.3.6
2. iPad 4: iOS 10.3.4
3. iPad 5: iOS 15.x

Most modern apps now require iOS 13 or newer, which means these iPads can’t install them directly. But the App Store does have a “last compatible version” system — if you know how to trigger it.

Method 1: Download the Last Compatible Version

This is the simplest method and works surprisingly well.

1. On your newer iPhone or iPad, sign in with the same Apple ID.

2. Download the app you want (e.g., YouTube, Facebook, Netflix).

3. Now, go back to your old iPad and open the App Store.

4. Check your Purchased section.

5. You should see the app listed. Tap the download button.

6. A popup will appear: “Do you want to download the last compatible version?” → tap Yes.

This installs the older version of the app that still works with your iPad’s iOS.

Method 2: Use iTunes on a Computer

If you don’t see the app in your purchased history, you can use iTunes on a PC/Mac (with the same Apple ID).

1. Download the app through iTunes.
2. Sync your iPad.
3. It will then allow you to grab the last compatible version.

This method is a little old-school, but it still works for many apps.

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Method 3: Repurpose the iPad

Even if some apps won’t run, old iPads are still very useful:

1. As a dedicated eBook reader (Kindle, Apple Books).
2. For watching YouTube via the browser (Safari).
3. As a music player or AirPlay controller.
4. For kids’ learning apps that still support iOS 9/10.

Final Thoughts

Your old iPad 2, 3, 4, 5, or mini may not support the latest iOS versions, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless. With the Purchased trick, you can still install older app versions and get the iPad working again. And even if some apps won’t cooperate, the device is perfect for reading, music, light browsing, or as a backup screen.

Before you give up on it, try these steps — you might be surprised how much life is still left in your old iPad.