Updating your iPhone or iPad to iOS 10 should be a smooth experience, but for some users, the process can go wrong, leaving their devices “bricked.” A bricked device appears to be unusable, often stuck on the Apple logo or a blank screen. Don’t panic—there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. Here’s a comprehensive guide to fix a bricked iPhone or iPad caused by a broken iOS 10 update.
1. Confirm the Issue
Before diving into fixes, verify that your device is genuinely bricked.
Symptoms of a bricked device:
Stuck on the Apple logo.
Continuously restarting (boot loop).
Unresponsive screen.
If these symptoms match your situation, proceed with the steps below.
2. Force Restart Your Device
A force restart can resolve minor glitches caused by the update.
For iPhone 6s and earlier or iPads with Home buttons:
Hold the Home and Power buttons simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
For iPhone 7/7 Plus:
Hold the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
For iPhone 8 and later or iPads without Home buttons:
Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button.
Hold the Side/Top button until the Apple logo appears.
3. Use Recovery Mode
If a force restart doesn’t work, you’ll need to put your device in Recovery Mode to reinstall iOS.
Connect your device to a computer:
Use a Lightning cable to connect your device to a Mac or Windows PC with iTunes installed.
Enter Recovery Mode:
For iPhone 6s and earlier or iPads with Home buttons: Hold the Home and Power buttons until the Recovery Mode screen appears.
For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Hold the Volume Down and Power buttons until the Recovery Mode screen appears.
For iPhone 8 and later or iPads without Home buttons: Press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and hold the Side/Top button until Recovery Mode appears.
Choose to Update or Restore:
In iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later), you’ll see a prompt to Update or Restore your device.
Select Update to reinstall iOS without erasing your data.
If Update fails, repeat the process and choose Restore, which will erase your data.
4. Use DFU Mode (Last Resort)
Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode allows for a more comprehensive reset.
Connect your device to a computer and open iTunes/Finder.
Enter DFU Mode:
For iPhone 6s and earlier: Hold the Home and Power buttons for 8 seconds, then release the Power button but continue holding the Home button until iTunes detects your device.
For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Hold the Volume Down and Power buttons for 8 seconds, then release the Power button but continue holding the Volume Down button.
For iPhone 8 and later: Press and release the Volume Up button, press and release the Volume Down button, and hold the Side/Top button until the screen goes black. Then, hold the Volume Down button while continuing to hold the Side/Top button for 5 seconds, and release the Side/Top button while holding the Volume Down button.
Restore Your Device:
iTunes/Finder will prompt you to restore your device. Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Check for Hardware Issues
If none of the above steps work, there might be a hardware issue.
Visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple Store for professional diagnostics.
Ensure your device is still covered under warranty or AppleCare+ for potential free repairs.
6. Prevent Future Update Issues
Backup Regularly: Always back up your data before performing updates.
Free Up Storage: Ensure your device has enough space for updates.
Stable Connection: Use a reliable Wi-Fi network and keep your device charged during updates.
Final Thoughts
A bricked iPhone or iPad can be frustrating, but with these steps, most issues can be resolved at home. If you’re unable to fix the problem, don’t hesitate to seek help from Apple Support. Always ensure your devices are updated with care and preparation to prevent future issues.
Have any questions or additional tips? Share them in the comments below!