Q: iOS 9.3 update returns an error saying "not connected to Internet

Seems like Apple has temporary  troubles with their activation servers. Lots of users report similar issue on older devices.

Recent info  : If you can't activate your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch after installing iOS 9.3 - Apple Support

http://www.imore.com/apple-working-ios-93-fix-older-iphone-ipad?utm_medium=slide r&utm_campaign=navigation&utm_source=im

http://9to5mac.com/2016/03/24/apple-releases-new-build-of-ios-9-3-for-users-of-o lder-ios-devices-affected-by-bricking-bug/

Hoppefully Apple will shed the light on it soon

This is not a response to the question, which I also have.

The issue is that I cannot even install the iOS 9.3 update on my iPad mini due to the connection error mentioned above. 

Activation is irrelevant.

Please reply to this question.

Apple has issued a fix for this problem. Connect your device to a computer running iTunes 12.3 or later and connect the device. An updated version of iOS 9.3 will be installed that corrects the problem of not being able to activate the device. You will still need your Apple ID and password however.

i connected my device to my PC, but iTunes says, that my version 9.2.1 is latest

My iPad 4 is giving the error message that it cannot connect to the Internet to verify the install. My iPad is connected to the Internet.

I have the exact same issue. OTA doesn't work (says no connection to Internet - error) and iTunes says my 9.2.1 version is that latest. I also don't see any response to this specific issue even though it seems like a number of people are getting it. I have an iPad Air 1.

Same here

I was getting the same "can't verify... not connected to Internet" from my iPad 3 and my iPhone 5S.

I deleted the 9.3 update from my iPad 3. That was probably a dumb thing to do because there is still a "1" in the Software Update menu under Settings, General but when tapped it spins for a bit and says 9.2.1 is up-to-date. Is there any way to get rid of the "1" that signifies that there is an update waiting? At least the iPad works fine.

I have not messed with the iPhone 5S... and will not install 9.3... I'll wait until 9.3.1.

What a mess!

It worked perfectly. My iTunes was already 12.3.3 so I didn't have any problem there. Thanks!

I just downloaded IOS9.3.1 OTA and it worked just fine. Issue is sorted out for me.

I Am having the same issue on my iPad mini. I have tried several times, but it keeps telling me I am not connected to the Internet. I downloaded the update with no problems on my iPhone 5 but not on the mini.