We can agree to disagree re automatic updates for any OS without (a) knowing what the updates are and what they do and (b) waiting for a time and researching user feedback re bugs that might be introduced as a result of upgrading. The issue of suddenly finding third party software incompatibilities and associated costs to upgrade should also be a consideration.

My preference is to set things to notify me when an update is available which lets me stay in control of the process.

Another useful strategy is to have a look at a machine that has been updated especially if there has been a significant change to OS appearance and configuration. That way you can make some sort of informed decision as to the utility of upgrading as it suits your needs.

On a stand alone Mac you can go to Safari preferences and choose the Tabs option and this gives you some choices re how a new page opens up as a window or a tabbed page etc. The bookmarks editor can be found under the Bookmarks menu on the stand alone Mac Safari version. I've just had a look at a nearby iPad and cant see a similar option there suggesting differences between OS's. That said, I suspect that deleting and reinstalling safari might not be a real option there as it is a system file.

Looking at what Google is offering as a solution, the info seems a little contradictory and possibly risky when suggestions are made to reset to default OS settings etc.

I don't know if you have access to an Apple shop in your area but it might be useful to have a talk to someone there or look for some user resources such as offered at a site like this: https://www.takecontrolbooks.com They have an iPad book that might be helpful to you. I've found their Wifi and security resources particularly useful and well priced too.

Out of interest can you tell us what version of iOS you have on you iPad at present?

Cheers,

Andrez