Recently we wrote an article about how Apple had started “bricking” the devices that had been repaired by anyone other than an approved service provider. The problem, predominant in iPhones, would show up with an “Error 53” message. Read the full article here.
This particular bug renders the phone unusable and no amount of effort can bring the phones back to life. Even the “Geniuses” at Apple Store weren’t able to find a solution.
With customers taking to the Internet and complaining about it, this issue gained a lot of traction on many online communities. It seems to have reached the ears of Apple, because the company has just come up with a solution.
With the release of an updated version of iOS 9.2.1, Apple has provided customers with a way to unbrick their devices. The update is available for the iPad Mini 3 and later, iPad Air 2, and iPhone 6 and later.
NOTE: Applying the update will make the disabled iPhones usable again but will not re-enable Touch ID unless the home button is serviced by Apple. (Source: TechCrunch)
The update, which was released on Wednesday, is not available over-the-air. Meaning that you’ll not be able to download the update directly from your iPhone. You’ll have to connect your phone to a Mac or PC running iTunes and then download the patch from there.
Apple has publicly apologised for the issue, in a statement they issued. “We apologize for any inconvenience. This was designed to be a factory test and was not intended to affect customers.”
It went to confirm that customers who paid for an out-of-warranty replacement of their device based on this issue should contact AppleCare about a reimbursement. So in case you had to shell out some bucks for fixing the issue, you’re likely to get your money back.
Now that’s the kind of prompt and efficient service that makes Apple such a lovable brand. Good job, Mr Cook. Good job indeed!