iOS 9.3.2 Bricking Some 9.7-inch iPad Pro Devices With 'Error 56' Message [Updated] - MacRumors
Skip to Content

iOS 9.3.2 Bricking Some 9.7-inch iPad Pro Devices With 'Error 56' Message [Updated]

iOS 9.3.2 is causing problems for some 9.7-inch iPad Pro owners, with multiple MacRumors readers and Twitter users reporting issues shortly after installing the update over the air. Affected users are seeing an "Error 56" message that instructs them to plug their devices into iTunes.

brickedipad

An iPad Pro bricked after installing iOS 9.3.2. Image via Twitter.

While not all 9.7-inch iPad Pro users have reported problems, there have been a number of reports on the MacRumors forums and on social networks, suggesting the problem is widespread. Attempting to restore through iTunes doesn't appear to resolve the issue. From MacRumors user NewtypeCJ:

Mine is bricked. Says it needs to be plugged into iTunes, won't restore or update, just a big loop. Fantastic. :/

According to Apple's error code support document, error 56 is a hardware issue. The document recommends installing the latest version of iTunes, checking for issues with third-party security software, and attempting a restore twice. Apple recommends customers who are still seeing the error message contact Apple support.

With a number of users affected by the bricking issue, Apple will likely need to release an updated version of iOS 9.3.2 that solves the problem.

Update May 17, 10:47 PM: Apple has issued a statement to iMore's Rene Ritchie, simply stating the company is "looking into a small number of reports" regarding this issue.

We're looking into a small number of reports that some iPad units are receiving an error when updating the software. Those unable to restore their device through iTunes should contact Apple support.

No cause or specific solution has apparently been determined.

Related Forum: iOS 9

Popular Stories

Apple TV Thumb 3

Everything Coming in the 2026 Apple TV 4K

Wednesday July 8, 2026 4:51 pm PDT by
The Apple TV 4K hasn't been updated since 2022, and it's due for a refresh. An update is planned for 2026, but Apple is likely going to wait to launch it after Siri AI launches in iOS 27. Design Apple TV design updates don't happen often, and that's not changing. The next Apple TV is going to have the same squircle shape as the current model, and it'll continue to be made from a black...
iphone 16 teal

'Siri AI' Lawsuit Update: Apple to Pay Owners of These iPhone Models

Thursday July 9, 2026 7:08 am PDT by
In May, Apple agreed to pay $250 million to settle a U.S. class action lawsuit over Siri AI's delayed launch, and eligible iPhone users could receive up to a $95 payout. This week, the California court overseeing the case held a hearing regarding preliminary approval of the settlement, but the judge has not yet issued a ruling. It will likely be at least a few more months before eligible...
iCloud iPhone 17 Pro

Apple Says These iOS 27 Features Require $9.99/Month Subscription

Wednesday July 8, 2026 6:24 am PDT by
iOS 27 includes new Apple Intelligence features for compatible cameras in Apple's Home app, but only if you have an iCloud+ plan with at least 2TB of storage. This limitation effectively means that the new features are only available with a minimum $9.99/month subscription, even though the centerpiece of the subscription is the 2TB of storage. The features include AI descriptions for...

Top Rated Comments

MacDevil7334 Avatar
133 months ago
Every damn iOS update! Quality control has absolutely gone down the toilet over there! The part I don't get is how this managed to slip through 4 betas unnoticed.
Score: 62 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jmh600cbr Avatar
133 months ago
I'm not even surprised any more. I'm sort of impressed.
Score: 58 Votes (Like | Disagree)
dannys1 Avatar
133 months ago
I do wonder, has quality really got worse - or is there now just A LOT more Apple devices and a LOT more internet coverage of every issue than ever in the history of Apple.
Score: 43 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jackth29 Avatar
133 months ago
I can't remember a time when I've felt things at Apple were this messy.
Score: 40 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Tim Chef Avatar
133 months ago
They're upgrading wrong.
Score: 34 Votes (Like | Disagree)
133 months ago
"Pro". Gets me every time!
Score: 30 Votes (Like | Disagree)