The entire thing first came to light when users began to notice that it wasn’t just an isolated incident. For some reason the issue is only affecting the latest M4-powered iPads. Though working fine for many, a not insignificant number of M4 iPads simply refuse to turn on after updating to the latest operating system.
Apple is having to issue replacement units for affected users. The problem is widespread enough that the company couldn’t just stay silent about it and had to make a public statement.
We have temporarily removed the iPadOS 18 update for M4 iPad Pro models as we work to resolve an issue that is impacting a small number of devices.
- Ability to write notes with the Apple pencil
- Live audio transcription
- Home screen customization
- Redesigned Photos app
- Game Mode
- And Apple Intelligence (coming later)
If you’re rocking an M4 iPad I’d highly suggest putting off updating to iPadOS 18. The calculator app is tempting, but you really don’t want to risk bricking your tablet.
All supported iPads not powered by the M4 chip can be updated to iPadOS 18 for free right now. I hope this doesn’t reflect how the iPad robot is going to turn out, I really want that thing to be a fun toy. But Apple really needs to start rethinking how it launches products in the future, because this year has not been promising.