iPad Air Ipad Air 3rd gen. Replace, repair or wait?

[zamboknee]

I have a 3rd gen Ipad Air whose battery isn't holding a charge very well anymore. I've had it since 2019 and am debating my next move.
I was going to replace the battery, which would be the cheaper route, but then it dawned on me that the PadOS won't be updatable probably sooner than later.
Is there a way to determine when the ipad's OS WON'T be upgradeable anymore?

I basically only use it for reading and watching YouTube videos in bed so maybe just leave it plugged in and ride out the thing until it won't power on anymore?

 

[bodonnell202]

3rd gen iPad Air has the A12, which is currently the oldest chip still supported by iPadOS 26, so it’s fairly likely that it won’t get iPadOS 27. That said you still have most of a year with iPadOS 26 plus another couple years of basic security updates. After that you’ll probably start having app compatibility issues. Up to you as to whether the battery replacement cost is worth it based on that timeline versus putting it towards a newer device.

 

[fricotin]

I have an Air 3 with a home button not working, will upgrade to the pro M5.

 

[FeliApple]

Upgrade. iPadOS 26 will be garbage even with a new battery. The oldest supported device on the latest iOS version and good battery life just aren’t compatible.

 

[Black.Infinity]

New battery not worth it.

 

[Ungibbed]

I recommend replacing your iPad given its age. If money is tight, you could get a great deal on the used market. Either from a friend or on Offer Up or other online marketplace.