iPad screen unresponsive after update to iPadOS 26.2, can't enter PIN

Triloulou wrote:

Thank you for your reply.

Unfortunately, the iPad contains about 50G of data. Most of these are not in iCloud because of the storage limitation of the iCloud free plan.

I fully agree that the lessons learned here is to keep backups. Hence, I am not willing to go to iCloud for this. iCloud is a very powerful feature but is also a recurrent cost that can be very high over time.

The ideal solution for me would be to have an automated backup on a NAS (like a TimeCapsule). That solution would be efficient, transparent and without recurring costs. Unfortunately, it is not possible to backup an iPad on a TimeCapsule. I don't know if other NAS as supporting such a solution.

If the iPad is unresponsive as described, local file recovery will not be possible. Seeking assistance from Apple Support is often advised as an early or last resort, however, this will invariably require the device to be factory restored where a restart fails to clear the problem. Unless the device Passcode can be successfully entered to unlock the iPad, all locally stored data will remain fully encrypted and beyond reach. The only copy of the system encryption keys are stored within the iPad's Secure Enclave (the security chip) and cannot be extracted.

Every Apple Account has a 5GB iCloud storage allowance without charge. This can be increased for a small monthly fee to 50GB or 200GB - the cost being less than just one cup of coffee from a coffee shop. Other storage tiers are available:

iCloud+ plans and pricing - Apple Support

As for automated backup to NAS or other storage platforms, this is not natively supported by iOS/iPadOS. You can, however, automate the process to a variety of external storage options - including third-party Cloud services, external media devices and network storage (NAS). One App that comes readily to mind is FileBrowser Professional by Stratospherix:

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/filebrowser-professional/id854618029

You would be well advised to review the extensive online Manual and help files to determine suitability for your needs.

https://www.stratospherix.com/products/filebrowserprofessional/filebrowser-professional-user-guide.php

Speaking of personal experience, I am yet to encounter a file storage or file backup scenario that the FileBrowser App won’t handle. FileBrowser also integrates directly with the native Files App, further simplifying file management. There is a small learning curve, but it works effectively.

If your iPad is unresponsive to input as described, your only option may be to restore to factory settings. If you don't have a viable backup of your data, all locally stored data will be unavoidably lost.

Be aware that any data synchronised with iCloud will be safe from deletion - and will again be accessible after setting-up the iPad again after the factory restore.

If you value your data, always keep a backup. iPadOS makes keeping an iCloud backup of locally stored data trivially simple - fully automating regular refresh of the backup to iCloud. For future reference:

Back up iPad - Apple Support

What does iCloud back up? - Apple Support

Before doing anything you might regret, I suggest to call 1-800-APLCARE.

Perhaps they can offer a better solution or an in-store visit.

Let me know how it goes.

Good luck! 👋🏼😉