How do I fix an iPad stuck in setup mode and unresponsive to touch?

If your iPad is stuck in setup, unresponsive to touch, and you can't restore from a backup, you might need to try a force restart or put your iPad into recovery mode and restore it using your computer. If these methods fail, you may need to consider professional repair or replacement. 

Troubleshooting Steps: 

1. 1. Force Restart:

• • For iPads with a Home button: Press and hold the top button and the Home button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears, then release both buttons. 
  • For iPads without a Home button (Face ID): Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the top button. Release the button when the Apple logo appears. 

1. 2. Recovery Mode and Restore:

• • For iPads with a Home button: Press and hold the top button and Home button at the same time until you see the recovery mode screen. 
  • For iPads without a Home button (Face ID): Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the top button until you see the recovery mode screen. 
  • Connect to Computer: Connect your iPad to your computer using a USB cable. 
  • Restore: Open iTunes on your computer or Finder on your Mac and choose "Restore" to restore your iPad to factory settings. 
  • Note: This will erase all data on your iPad, so back up your data to iCloud or another location before restoring. 

1. 3. If the above steps fail:

• • Check USB Cable and Port: Try a different USB cable and a different USB port on your computer. 
  • Professional Repair: If you still can't resolve the issue, consider taking your iPad to an Apple Store or authorized service provider for professional diagnosis and repair. 

Important Considerations: 

• Wi-Fi Connection:
• During the setup process, ensure your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi and has a strong signal. 
• Power:
• Keep your iPad connected to its power adapter while setting it up and during the restore process to avoid interruptions. 
• Activation Lock:
• If your iPad is stuck in Activation Lock, you will need to unlock it before you can restore it, according to Apple Support. 
• Software Update:
• Ensure your computer's operating system and iTunes (or Finder on Mac) are up to date. 

If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:

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.

If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset the iPad to factory settings:

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

Otherwise, you would 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 and perhaps easier, 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 assess your iPad and offer hands-on assistance:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple