Apple has recently pulled the iPadOS 18 update for M4 iPad Pro models following a wave of complaints from users who reported that their devices became bricked after installing the software. This decision comes just a day after the update was made available, highlighting significant issues that have rendered some iPads unresponsive.
The Rollout of iPadOS 18
On September 16, 2024, Apple launched iPadOS 18, which introduced several new features, including customizable home screens, a calculator app for the first time on the iPad, and enhanced note-taking capabilities. However, shortly after the rollout, many M4 iPad Pro owners began reporting serious problems. Users took to platforms like Reddit and Apple’s Discussion Forums to share their experiences of devices that turned off during the update process and failed to power back on.
One user recounted their experience: “I just took it to the Apple Store, who confirmed it’s completely bricked,” indicating that they would need to send the device to engineers for assessment before receiving a replacement, despite having AppleCare. This frustration was echoed by numerous other users facing similar issues.
Apple’s Response
In light of these complaints, Apple has temporarily removed the iPadOS 18 update for M4 iPad Pro models and has stopped signing the firmware files necessary for restoring these devices. While Apple has not publicly acknowledged the full extent of the problem, they confirmed they are working to resolve it. Notably, other devices are still able to download and install the update without incident, suggesting that the issue is isolated to specific models.
User Experiences
Affected users reported various scenarios leading up to their devices becoming bricked. Some noted that their iPads were fully charged and connected to power during the update process but still encountered failures. Attempts to recover their devices using recovery mode or connecting them to a computer yielded no positive results, leaving many frustrated and seeking assistance from Apple Support.
Community Reactions
The community response has been overwhelmingly critical of Apple’s quality assurance processes. Many users expressed disappointment over experiencing such severe issues with a brand-new device. Comments highlighted concerns about whether adequate testing was conducted prior to releasing the update. Some users even compared their experiences unfavorably with Android devices, stating that they had never encountered such critical failures during updates on other platforms.
Looking Ahead
As of now, Apple has not provided a timeline for when iPadOS 18 will be re-released for M4 iPad Pro models or what specific measures will be implemented to address these issues. Users are advised to refrain from installing the update until further notice and are encouraged to contact Apple Support if they experience problems.
Conclusion
The withdrawal of iPadOS 18 for M4 iPad Pro models underscores the challenges tech companies face in ensuring software reliability across diverse hardware configurations. As Apple works to rectify this situation, affected users are left navigating uncertainty regarding their devices’ functionality and future updates. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough testing in software development and maintaining user trust in technology companies.
