Apple consistently delivers major updates for its iPhone and iPad devices annually, and these upgrades are widely and rapidly embraced by users. As a result, the most popular versions of iOS and iPadOS frequently shift. So, as of January 2025, which versions are dominating the charts? Let’s dive into the details, based on data released by Apple.
Apple’s iOS and iPadOS Popularity Trends Revealed: January 2025 Update
For iPhone models introduced in the last four years, iOS 18 reigns supreme, with an impressive 76% adoption rate. Its predecessor, iOS 17, follows at 19%, while earlier versions collectively account for just 5%. This strong adoption reflects Apple’s commitment to providing seamless upgrades and enticing new features that encourage users to stay current.
When considering all iPhone models, the preference for iOS 18 remains strong, with a 68% usage rate, followed by iOS 17 at 19%. Older versions, unsurprisingly, contribute a slightly larger share of 13%, likely due to hardware limitations on legacy devices.
Most Popular iPadOS Versions: January 2025
The iPad lineup mirrors the trends observed with iPhones. Among iPad models released in the past four years, iPadOS 18 leads with a 63% adoption rate, while iPadOS 17 claims 27%. Earlier versions combine to make up just 10%.
For all iPad models, iPadOS 18 is again the dominant version, holding 53% of the share, with iPadOS 17 capturing 28%. Older versions collectively account for 19%, reflecting a slightly slower adoption rate compared to iPhones, possibly due to different usage patterns among iPad users.
Detailed Rankings
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular versions:
iOS Usage (New iPhones from Last 4 Years):
- iOS 18 – 76%
- iOS 17 – 19%
- Other Versions – 5%
iPadOS Usage (New iPads from Last 4 Years):
- iPadOS 18 – 63%
- iPadOS 17 – 27%
- Other Versions – 10%
Insights and Reflection
Apple’s ecosystem thrives on user engagement, and these adoption rates highlight the success of its annual updates. With iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 taking the lead, it’s clear that users continue to value the innovations and performance enhancements these updates provide.
What version are you using, and how has your experience been? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
