iPad Pro 12.9" 3rd gen - screen just stopped responding

It sounds like your iPad Pro 12.9” (3rd Gen, A1876) is experiencing a touchscreen failure where the display turns on but does not respond to touch. Since you’ve already tried restarting it, here are some potential solutions:

1. Force Restart Your iPad

Since a regular restart didn’t work, try a force restart:

1. Press and release the Volume Up button.

2. Press and release the Volume Down button.

3. Press and hold the Power button (top button) until you see the Apple logo.

This often fixes unresponsive touchscreen issues.

2. Try an External Keyboard or Mouse (Workaround to Unlock iPad)

Since you can’t use the touchscreen to enter your passcode, try connecting an external keyboard or mouse via:

• Bluetooth (if previously paired).

• USB-C adapter (using a wired keyboard/mouse).

Once connected, you might be able to enter your passcode using the keyboard and regain control.

3. Check for iOS Software Issues via Recovery Mode

If a force restart doesn’t fix the issue, you can try updating (not erasing) the iPad through Recovery Mode:

1. Connect your iPad to a Mac or PC with iTunes/Finder.

2. Put your iPad in Recovery Mode:

• Press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Power button until you see the Recovery Mode screen (a computer icon with a cable).

3. Your computer should detect the iPad and give you two options: Update or Restore.

• Choose “Update” to reinstall iPadOS without erasing data.

• If the issue persists, try “Restore” (this will erase your iPad).

4. Check for Physical Damage or Hardware Issues

If none of the above steps work, the touchscreen hardware may have failed due to:

• A loose internal connector (can happen over time).

• Physical damage (even if not visible).

• Screen digitizer failure (a known issue with some iPad Pro models).

If you suspect hardware failure, you’ll likely need a repair. Apple Support or an Apple Authorized Service Provider can diagnose it. If it’s out of warranty, you might need a screen replacement.

You’re welcome! Since your iPad Pro isn’t showing in Finder after entering Recovery Mode, here are some things to check:

1. Check Your Cable & Ports

• Use an Apple-certified USB-C cable and try a different USB port on your MacBook.

• If you’re using a USB hub or adapter, try connecting directly to the Mac.

2. Update macOS or iTunes

• If your Mac is running an older macOS version, it may not recognize the iPad in Recovery Mode.

• Go to System Settings > General > Software Update and check for updates.

• If using an older Mac with iTunes, ensure iTunes is updated to the latest version.

3. Try DFU Mode (Deeper Recovery Mode)

If Recovery Mode isn’t working, you can try DFU (Device Firmware Update) Mode:

1. Connect your iPad to your MacBook via USB-C.

2. Put your iPad into DFU Mode:

• Press and release the Volume Up button.

• Press and release the Volume Down button.

• Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds (screen should go black).

• Keep holding the Power button and also press the Volume Down button for another 5 seconds.

• Release the Power button, but keep holding the Volume Down button for another 10 seconds.

• If done correctly, the screen will remain black, but Finder (or iTunes) should detect the iPad in DFU mode.

3. Your Mac should now detect the iPad in DFU mode and give options to Restore or Update.

• Try “Update” first (this reinstalls iPadOS without erasing data).

• If that fails, try “Restore” (this will erase your iPad).

4. Check Finder Preferences

• Open Finder and go to Settings (⌘ + ,) > Sidebar

• Make sure CDs, DVDs, and iOS Devices is enabled

5. Try Another Computer

If you have access to another Mac or a Windows PC with iTunes, try connecting the iPad there.

6. If Nothing Works, Visit Apple Support

• If your iPad still doesn’t appear in Finder or iTunes, it might have a hardware issue (logic board or USB controller failure).

• You may need to visit an Apple Store or Authorised Repair Centre for further diagnostics.