Q: Hardware issue post iOS 9.3 iPad mini 2

this seems odd... there is a worldwide, fairly common issue regarding iPad 2s after iOS 9.3 upgrade - nothing that I would think an Apple employee would suggest replacing the iPad, though!

this article came out TODAY > If you can't activate your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch after installing a software update - Apple Support

Are you actually having an activation issue or is your iPad not turning on or freezing?

mprashant wrote:

 

The Genius bar tech did a firmware restore and the concluded that the hardware isn't working. What I am unable to understand is if a software update causes the device to not function why am I asked to pay for it. Is this the new way to make money?

I think you may need to renegotiate that charge - in order of appearance on the web (#1 & 2 are possibly 'switchable')

1. If you can't activate your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch after installing a software update - Apple Support
2. Apple pausing iOS 9.3 updates for older devices, working on activation fix | iMore
3. Apple releases new build of iOS 9.3 for users of iPad 2 affected by bricking bug | 9to5Mac

Before this gets too crosswise, are you having an issue like the one the other poster keeps linking about, that your mini is working but it shows it cannot be activated? Or is it just not working at all and does not even turn on?

If it is the latter it is possible that there was already a hardware issue and the update was too much for it, just like lights often fail when you turn them on and apply power. You can ask to talk to the service manager of the store or call AppleCare and ask to be transferred to customer service.

But before anything else please confirm if you are getting an activation message or if it is just...dead.

I understood that... It seems coincidental to the iOS 9.3 upgrade (what are the chances?)

iPad 2s are the main victims - if it is a hardware issue, then it is what it is - repair is possible, but not by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (not cost effective for THEM). A reputable independent may have a different opinion.

If it were me, I would seek a 2nd opinion.

Has this iPad ever been opened?

As I said before sometimes upgrades reveal a problem that is already present but not at complete failure. Given the number of iPads out there the odds are pretty good that some will fail after update.

Did you update over the air or via iTunes on your computer? If you did it OTA then try it via iTunes on your computer. You might try it a couple of times. If it still does not work that would indicate the digitizer had failed. You can see if your Apple Store can do a screen replacement or what the out-of-warranty cost is but with an iPad Mini 2 you might be better off with a good 3rd party vendor although you will not get an Apple numbered screen. You also take the risk that if they can't fix it you will not longer be eligible for any hardware support from Apple.

No, she is asking if a repair person has opened your iPad to work on it.

have you ever had a screen replacement etc.