Q: iOS 9.3 update does not show up, when i search for new software.

I too am not seeing the option to update to iOS 9.3, shows 'iOS 9.2.1 - up to date' I have an iPad-mini(1st gen) my mother has an iPad3 which updated to iOS 9.3 which I know the iPad is an older system; I got the iPad3 then a year later got the iPad-mini(then gave iPad3 to my mother)...

I Don't understand why iPad3 updated to iOS 9.3 but my iPad-mini is saying it is up to date with iOS 9.2.1???

Me too. I'm on iPad Air.

The 9.3 update is temporarily on hold - so please stick with 9.2.1 for the moment

The "list" of pertinent articles as I know them to be as of now

- you can read about the problems in these articles, and possibly find workarounds, particularly in the last one

If you can't activate your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch after installing a software update - Apple Support

Apple pausing iOS 9.3 updates for older devices, working on activation fix | iMore

Apple releases new build of iOS 9.3 for users of iPad 2 affected by bricking bug | 9to5Mac 

Apple Addresses GSM iPad 2 Activation Bug With Revised iOS 9.3, but Broader Issue Remains Unfixed - Mac Rumors

If you can’t activate your iPad 2 (GSM model) after you update to iOS 9.3 - Apple Support 

Troubleshooting iOS 9.3 Update Problems

From a post by: ChitlinsCC

Same for me with family iPads (Air & Mini 2).

Based on the many other posts on IOS 9.3:

- seems to have been taken offline until the many issues can be sorted

- best not to even try to download it until it is confirmed as fixed

- Apple management should fire their dev team. How on earth did they manage to put out a turkey like this one?!?!?!

Same here on my iPad Air 2 A1566

Hi

Try a reboot press & hold power button & menu button hold both down until you see apple logo .

This can take 30 seconds .

Then try update .

Cheers

Brian