With some frequency we find new versions of iPadOS that can bring both functional and aesthetic novelties. However, Apple tablets are not exempt from flaws in this process, since problems may appear to update the iPad. Luckily, these usually have a solution that is often easier than it seems, something that we will tell you in this article in which we investigate the different problems that may appear during the iPad software update.
Backup before updating iPad
Although Apple operating systems are prepared to be installed on top of the previous versions without these supplying any type of problem, the truth is that it is not totally ruled out that some type of failure may occur (more if it takes time without restoring the operating system). Therefore we cling here to the saying that prevention is better than cure. Therefore we recommend making a backup copy of all data before updating, either through iCloud or by storing said backup on a Mac or Windows computer.
Error message during download
One of the most frequent problems when trying to update iPadOS is that a message appears on the screen warning that the download has been impossible. There can be several error messages of this type and many times the reason is not even specified, so in the following sections we delve into the key points that you must take into account to know the reason for this failure.
Restart the iPad (just in case)
It sounds like a stupid solution, but you would be surprised how many problems can be solved by turning a device off and on. And it is not by black magic or anything similar, since it has a very simple explanation. An iPad, like so many other devices of this type, executes some tasks in the background that often end up giving some kind of error that we don’t even notice. The only way to end these types of failures is by restarting the tablet, so if this is the problem your iPad is having, it will be completely resolved.
Check your internet connection
It seems obvious, but perhaps it is not so: software downloads require an internet connection. If you also have an iPad with the possibility of using mobile data, this may be the reason. It is advisable to always be connected to a WiFi network to proceed with these types of downloads, but in addition to that you must make sure that you have good speed. If you do not have good coverage in this regard, it is recommended that you contact the company that provides you with the internet to notify them of the incident and fix it as soon as possible.
Crashed servers?
Despite the large server infrastructure that Apple has for its services, it is understandable that on certain occasions there is a certain level of activity above normal that makes it not work normally. If the update just came out a few minutes or hours ago, it is even more normal for this collapse to exist. Apple enables a website where you can check if your services are being provided normally, although it must be said that in the end in these cases the only solution at your fingertips is to be patient and wait for it to decongest. If the thing takes longer and you don’t have an excessive need to update, it ends up being better to wait the next day to update iPadOS.
If the iPad stays on the apple updating
In another of the vertices of the problems to update an iPad we find that loop in which we only see the Apple logo on the screen and for more time that passes we do not see anything else. This, although it seems more complex to solve, also has solutions at your fingertips.
Make sure how long it’s been like this
Before proceeding to carry out any action, it is convenient that you take into account how long your device has been like this. When the iPad shows this screen it means that it is installing all the changes of the new version, so it is understandable that this can extend over time. There are some versions with a large amount of data and a high weight that imply a time that can be perceived as eternal. Therefore we recommend you to be a little patient and if after a considerable time you still do not see variation, you should get down to work trying to solve it.
Try to turn it off normally
Surely you have already tried, but if not, it is convenient that you try to turn off the iPad as you normally would. Press and hold the top button for several seconds to turn it off, and once the screen goes black, try turning it back on in the same way to see if the problem is fixed. If it doesn’t work, don’t worry and read the next section.
Put it in DFU mode
From the previous point you can jump to this perfectly, either because it has not worked and the apple continues to appear on the screen or because directly when you turn it on again an image like the one we see below has appeared, which indicates that the iPad to a computer.
What DFU mode basically does is leave the iPad with a single accessible option, which is to restore its data with a computer. Therefore you will need a cable with which to connect the iPad and a computer that serves as an operations center. If it’s Mac, you can use iTunes (macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later). But first, you have to put the iPad in DFU mode by doing the following:
- On an iPad with a Home button: press and hold the Home button and the upper power button at the same time until the screen turns off and the image asking to connect the device to a computer is displayed.
- On iPad without Home button: press and release the volume up button, press and release the volume down button and hold the power button until the screen turns off and the aforementioned image appears asking to connect to a computer.
Once you have done this you will have to have the iPad connected to the computer and using one of the aforementioned programs you must go to the iPad management and click on the “Restore” button. If you do not have a previous backup, you will not be able to recover the data, since the iPad will start as if it came from the factory.
When errors appear after updating
We have seen problems before updating, during and now it’s time to see the after. If you have already updated to the latest version of iPadOS and you find that there are bugs during its operation, obviously something is wrong.
Most frequent bugs that may appear: **
- Some data such as photos or files have been lost.
- Applications do not open correctly.
- Problems navigating the interface.
- Sudden device reboots.
- Visual glitches that cause the content to not be displayed completely.
Fully restore iPad
Although the above are the most common, the list of problems can be more extensive. These are usually more common in the first versions of operating systems (iPadOS 13, iPadOS 14 …), which does not mean that there may not be them in subsequent versions. In any case, it is advisable to format the iPad and leave it with factory settings to eliminate any trace of software problems that may be causing these failures.
Although it is recommended to make a backup, it is not so advisable that it be restored after formatting because it could bring these problems back. There is a lot of data that can be kept if you have it synchronized with iCloud (you can see it in Settings> your name> iCloud.). Regarding the recommended restoration method, it is to do it through a computer as we explained in this article when we talked about putting the iPad in DFU mode.
If you can’t solve the problem
If after following these tips you have not been able to solve the problem, it cannot be ruled out that it is a hardware problem. Whether or not it is the source of the problem, what is clear is that you have tried to make various adjustments without success. Therefore, it is advisable that you contact Apple’s technical service or, failing that, an authorized one. They will be able to make a more complete diagnosis of what happens to the iPad in order to offer you a solution that is probably even free, especially if the iPad has a warranty. In any case, you will be informed of the entire procedure when you hand over your iPad for inspection.