The vast majority of iPhone and iPad users are already running the latest versions of Apple’s mobile software, according to newly shared figures. The numbers show most users haven’t waited around to upgrade, with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 making quick strides in just a few months.
Among iPhones launched in the past four years, nearly nine in ten now run iOS 18. When looking at all iPhones still in use — regardless of age — around eight in ten have made the leap.
Things look nearly as healthy on the iPad front. Around 81% of newer iPads now use iPadOS 18, while 71% of all iPads have installed it. These figures suggest users haven’t dragged their feet when it comes to staying current.
Looking back, iOS 17 and iOS 16 had strong showings too, but iOS 18 is holding its own. For instance, this time last year, iOS 17 was on 86% of newer iPhones. iOS 16, the year before, hit 90% — a high-water mark Apple hasn’t quite matched this round.
iPads have followed a similar pattern. iPadOS 17 had reached 86% on recent models last year, a notch higher than iPadOS 18’s current mark. But in terms of all iPads in circulation, both iPadOS 18 and iPadOS 16 stand level at 71%.
Several reasons help explain this fast uptake. First, iOS 18 works on older devices like the iPhone Xs, giving long-time users a chance to upgrade without splashing out on new kit. Second, software updates can be triggered straight from the settings menu — no need for tech know-how or cables. And third, Apple doesn’t rely on phone networks or third parties to push updates. It handles the lot in-house, speeding things up.
From a security point of view, staying up to date matters more than ever. Each new update patches bugs and tightens defences against the latest threats. There’s also the added bonus of new features landing with every major release.
Even so, not everyone wants to rush ahead. For those who prefer to tread carefully, Apple’s been offering a middle ground. When iOS 18 rolled out, users were also given the option to move to iOS 17.7 instead — a more familiar option that still delivers stability and fixes, without jumping headfirst into something new.
All told, these adoption rates show that Apple still holds the reins when it comes to rolling out software at scale. Whether for features, security, or just peace of mind, most iPhone and iPad users don’t seem to need much convincing to stay up to date.
Among iPhones launched in the past four years, nearly nine in ten now run iOS 18. When looking at all iPhones still in use — regardless of age — around eight in ten have made the leap.
Things look nearly as healthy on the iPad front. Around 81% of newer iPads now use iPadOS 18, while 71% of all iPads have installed it. These figures suggest users haven’t dragged their feet when it comes to staying current.
Looking back, iOS 17 and iOS 16 had strong showings too, but iOS 18 is holding its own. For instance, this time last year, iOS 17 was on 86% of newer iPhones. iOS 16, the year before, hit 90% — a high-water mark Apple hasn’t quite matched this round.
iPads have followed a similar pattern. iPadOS 17 had reached 86% on recent models last year, a notch higher than iPadOS 18’s current mark. But in terms of all iPads in circulation, both iPadOS 18 and iPadOS 16 stand level at 71%.
Several reasons help explain this fast uptake. First, iOS 18 works on older devices like the iPhone Xs, giving long-time users a chance to upgrade without splashing out on new kit. Second, software updates can be triggered straight from the settings menu — no need for tech know-how or cables. And third, Apple doesn’t rely on phone networks or third parties to push updates. It handles the lot in-house, speeding things up.
From a security point of view, staying up to date matters more than ever. Each new update patches bugs and tightens defences against the latest threats. There’s also the added bonus of new features landing with every major release.
Even so, not everyone wants to rush ahead. For those who prefer to tread carefully, Apple’s been offering a middle ground. When iOS 18 rolled out, users were also given the option to move to iOS 17.7 instead — a more familiar option that still delivers stability and fixes, without jumping headfirst into something new.
All told, these adoption rates show that Apple still holds the reins when it comes to rolling out software at scale. Whether for features, security, or just peace of mind, most iPhone and iPad users don’t seem to need much convincing to stay up to date.
While Apple’s software rollout stays tight and streamlined, the Android landscape, on the other hand, tells a more tangled tale.
As of May 2025, Android 14 holds the largest share, running on just under 30% of phones and tablets. But the rest of the platform is scattered across multiple versions, including Android 13 (17%), Android 12 (12%), and even Android 10, which still clings to life on more than 5% of devices.
This uneven spread isn’t new. Android’s open structure means phone makers like Samsung, Xiaomi, Motorola, and others all run their own shows. Each brand customises Android, adds its own features, and controls when — or whether — users get updates.
That process often slows things down. Some devices wait months for new software. Others never receive it at all.
For users, it means getting the latest version isn’t always in their hands. Factors like carrier approval, regional policies, and manufacturer priorities all come into play. While some premium Android models are now getting better long-term support, the broader market — especially at lower price points — still sees patchy and inconsistent update paths.
So, although Android 14 leads the version chart, the platform as a whole remains fragmented, with millions of users still running older builds — and missing out on the latest security protections, features, and performance boosts that newer versions bring.
Read next:
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Read next:
• Are Creators the New Brands? How Gen Z and Millennials Are Rewriting Consumer Trust
• ChatGPT Might Know More About You Than You Think — Here’s How to Check and Erase It
