How to fix frozen iPad after iPadOS 26 update during Apple Pay setup?

My mother’s iPad is effectively stuck after updating to iOS 26. It is entirely responsive until the option to “set up Apple Pay” appears during the new update set-up. Because it freezes at this point, I can’t do anything. I’m able to sign into the wifi prior to this however. Even when I do attempt to set up Apple Pay for her, it gets stuck on the screen which says:


”Complete additional steps in wallet. Once you’ve finished setting up your new iPad, go to wallet to complete additional steps that some card issuers require to prevent fraud”


I’ve tried to factory reset it via my computer, however it says it’s not connected to Find My and thus I’m able to factory reset it, despite being connected and displaying on her iPhone — I assume it’s due to the newly installed iOS update. Moreover, I’ve tried to reset it via “find my


How do I resolve this? This is a brand new A16 iPad, and I’ve already repeatedly tried to do a hard reboot of the device. It’s unfair that a simple iOS update on a newly purchased device can prevent it from being used.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iPad frozen after update.

Posted on Dec 19, 2025 8:15 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Dec 22, 2025 12:15 AM

I encountered the same thing with a brand new iPad Mini recently purchased few days ago.

Came with iOS 18 installed. Did some basic set up but didn't touch the wallet. Then let it update to iOS26, and I got the same hanging if I tried to skip / "do it later" option. Tried restarting the iPad several times, same result. Didn't matter if it was connected to Wifi or not.


Eventually, I tried just adding a real credit card I had with me to it.

It worked.

Then just removed the credit card from Apple Wallet after the initial questions were done and I could use the iPad normally.

42 replies

Dec 28, 2025 8:08 AM in response to LotusPilot

Thanks for the very helpful reply. I should have clarified I don't have *any* computer. Tablet and phone meet all my computery needs. I have a 2015 iPad That still works for many of my key apps, I will just keep using this old one until I can get to an apple store (unfortunately closest one is > 2.5 hours away. If they are able to offer a simpler suggestion and have not pushed a fix to all before then I will be sure to share their advice here!

Jan 27, 2026 3:27 PM in response to Readerx

Readerx wrote:

My 2 yr old iPad mini keeps doing this -repeatedly- when I’m trying to close open apps. Won’t even respond to my touch to power down. I have to use an ink pen that has a rubber tip. My issue has nothing to do with Apple Pay. It’s sucking up battery power when I can’t close the open apps. Sounds like it’s an ios26 problem that Apple needs to fix. I’ve been using an ipad since the 1st generation & this is the first time I’ve had these kind of problems.


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.




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.




When performed correctly, your iPad will restart.


If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings


If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is 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 you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, 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 you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How to fix frozen iPad after iPadOS 26 update during Apple Pay setup?

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