Before jumping to “intolerable,” you might want to browse through this extensive list of security updates included with iOS 8.2.
Mr. Varnell, I totally get that and I keep my phone strictly up to date because it’s always with me and I use apps like Wallet. But my iPad never leaves the house and I only use it for reading and research and Amazon. Besides, there must be extensive non-liability language in Apple’s terms of agreement where they’re not responsible if the user doesn’t keep the os current.
My point in this whole discussion is that it should be my choice. Offer me the upgrade and if I decline, then leave me alone. 
It’s good that you keep your iPhone up to date, but the difference in the usage patterns you describe doesn’t suggest a significantly different security policy for the iPad.
Many (most?) potential exploits will involve tricking the user into following a malicious link, such as in Mail or Messages or on the Web. Although there are plenty of attacks that require physical access to the device, those require a lot more effort and risk. So as long as you’re using Apple’s apps on the iPad, it’s important to stay up to date.
Apple isn’t worried about being sued because someone’s device is compromised; they’re legitimately trying to protect users against every vulnerability as it becomes known.
As an individual, you do have the power to decline any update offered—Apple doesn’t force anything on you. However, people who work in organizations are often required by their IT admins or managed services provider to install all updates right away to ensure that all devices are protected to the extent possible.
But it’s entirely reasonable for Apple to advertise the availability of an update with a badge. Otherwise, it’s all too easy for someone to decline an update because it’s a bad time, or they’re busy, or they mis-tap, and then fail to realize that it remains available.
My experience is that many people put a lot more time and energy into declining updates than it would take to accept the update when it’s a convenient time. That’s why the iPhone and iPad and Apple Watch all offer to install updates at night when they’re not in use.
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I don’t think anybody here has questioned that.
I don’t think anybody minds the remind me later option either. What this all really boils down to is folks asking for Apple to restore this:
As somebody who usually updates quite soon, I claim that’s an entirely legitimate request.
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There’s nothing wrong with wanting the return of such a feature, but the only way to register the opinion in a way that Apple might hear would be to file feedback directly.
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Indeed. Did it myself a while ago. I encourage everybody else who would like to see that option return to let Apple know.
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