Connecting MacBook Pro to iPad Pro

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Level 1

17 points

Connecting MacBook Pro to iPad Pro

MacBook Pro 16" M2 2023, iPad Pro 11" M4 2024

I am able to connect my MacBook to my iPad without difficulty, and have been able to do so since buying the iPad. However, whenever I connect the two by cable (primarily to charge the iPad) I get this message on my Mac: "a software update is required to connect to iPhone or iPad" and inviting me to download software. When I click the button to download the software I get a message saying it can't be done because it is not available on the server. But I don't need to download anything anyway, since the two devices are successfully connected. How can I stop the useless message from appearing?

iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

Posted on Aug 6, 2024 3:38 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Phil0124

Community+ 2026

Level 10

219,830 points

Aug 6, 2024 7:23 AM in response to fellwalker46

Its not a useless message. It serves a very important purpose.

The software is requesting is a small firmware update required for the iPad to be seen and accessed by the Mac in Finder or the Music App. Usually happens when the iPad is running a much newer version of its OS than the Mac knows what to do with.

It won't go away until the software can be downloaded and installed.

Make sure you are connected to the internet, and that Apple servers are not being restricted by your router or service provider.

You may need to disable any anti-virus or VPN software you may be running.

And you may need to try to install it in Safe mode.

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Answer 2

fellwalker46 Author

Level 1

17 points

Aug 6, 2024 11:14 AM in response to Phil0124

But as I have pointed out, my MacBook Pro and my iPad are already successfully connected. But I still get the message. That is why I described it as useless - perhaps unnecessary would be a better word to use.

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Connecting MacBook Pro to iPad Pro

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