iPad air3 gets stuck in a boot loop and cannot be restored

I have an iPad air 3 that it stuck in a boot loop where the Apple logo flashes up for a second and then disappears and repeats that. I've put it into recovery mode by holding down the power + home buttons, but when I try to do a restore that also fails. From the system log I can see the following:


Within a couple of seconds of starting the recovery mode it fails and enters a "disconnected state", even though it definitely is still physically connected to my Macbook.


Can anyone suggest anything I can try to fix it?

Posted on Dec 4, 2023 9:37 AM

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3 replies

Dec 4, 2023 10:28 AM in response to pogotc

Start by connecting your iPad to its Power Adapter and allow the iPad to charge for at least an hour - or preferably overnight. This step is advised as a battery with very low charge, or is failing, may produce symptoms that emulate a boot loop.


If the problem fails to stabilise, whilst still connected to the Power Adapter, attempt a forced restart of the iPad:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.




Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)

Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.



If iPad still doesn’t turn on, or if it gets stuck during start up, see the Apple Support article If your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch won't turn on or is frozen. Or if your iPad isn’t working correctly after you restart it, see the iPad Support website.


If your iPad is stuck is actually stuck in a boot-loop, you’ll need to resolve this specific issue - which may entail “restoring” the most recent version of iPadOS to the iPad. This support page outlines restoration of an iPad to Factory Settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod to factory settings – Apple Support


You’ll need access to either a Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of MacOS).

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support


Use of a PC or Mac computer is unavoidable. If you don’t have access to a suitable computer of your own, that of a helpful friend or family member will suffice. Alternatively, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be delighted to assist.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Dec 4, 2023 11:07 AM in response to pogotc

The response offered intentionally did not make any assumptions as to what may (or may not) have been tried - or the process attempted.


Having followed the suggested guidance, if you unable to resolve the problem, you might be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively, you can initiate and manage your support cases from Apple devices using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad and/or Mac:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

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iPad air3 gets stuck in a boot loop and cannot be restored

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