Apple released iOS 9.3.2 on Monday. The update doesn’t include any major new features, instead bundling incremental improvements for the mobile operating system. While the patch has gone smoothly for most, some users have reported being left with bricked iPads after installing it.
The issues appear to be centred on 9.7-inch iPad Pro devices. A number of users on Twitter, Reddit and Apple’s forums have reported seeing an “Error 56” message after installing iOS 9.3.2, rendering their device inoperable and stuck in a continuous reboot loop.
“Mine is bricked,” said one owner on the MacRumours forum. “Says it needs to be plugged into iTunes, won’t restore or update, just a big loop. Fantastic.” Another said “Apple definitely sucks. My device is bricked and I cannot get my iPad Pro in the store and to a Genius Bar appointment until Wednesday afternoon!”
The message instructs the iPad owner to plug in their device and connect it to iTunes. It advises a system restore is required to rectify the fault. Following the guidance and reinstalling iOS has not resolved the issue for many people though.
Apple’s support guidance contains only basic information on the problem. It says error 56 is related to a hardware issue, suggesting users ensure they have the latest version of iTunes and check for any issues in third-party security software. Because the message has only appeared after a software update, it’s less likely to be hardware at fault here though.
Apple has now confirmed it is aware of the reports of error 56 bricking iPads. Although no fix is available yet, the company issued a statement to iMore: “We’re looking into a small number of reports that some iPad units are receiving an error when updating the software. Those unable to restore their device through iTunes should contact Apple support.”
This isn’t the first time Apple has had problems when rolling out an iOS update. The current 9.3 release has been hit by bugs several times previously, including one that could crash an iPhone after tapping a link on a webpage.
iPad owners faced with the latest problem should begin by connecting their device to iTunes and attempting to restore its software. Failing that, the next step should be to call Apple’s support team or call into an Apple store.
With the company aware of the problem and multiple reports appearing online, Apple is likely to issue a software update for iOS 9.3.2 that remedies the issue. Once the patch is out, affected iPads will need to be restored using iTunes, requiring users reinstall any apps and download backups of their data once the process is complete.
