Apple recently released the latest version of its mobile operating system, iOS 9.3. Early adopters of the said version are now having issues on an older iPad, particularly the iPad 2, and they are having authentication issues.
Apple Insider reported that several iPad 2 owners are having problems after downloading and installing the latest iOS 9.3 to their old tablets and after restarting, the process stops at the activation stage. It was initially seen as caused by a bottleneck at Apple's authentication servers, which is a normal scenario after rolling out updates.
However, it has also been noted that quite a number of users have been waiting for 24 hours already, but the issue is limited to the specific tablet model only. No similar issues were reported regarding other iOS devices, so this may not be a simple authentication server problem. Many devices went through the update smoothly.
As one user posted on Apple's discussion forum, "Server overload??? So the iPad 2 has his own activation server? Because my other iDevices (2x iPhone 5S, iPad Air 2) activated without any hiccup at the same time, while the iPad 2 didn't."
Another user stated on the forum that the Apple Support line is currently overwhelmed by the issue and no help can be provided. One iPad 2 owner even went to an Apple Store but the staff member apparently does not have an idea what to do with the issue.
A user tagged as "subiyer" posted a workaround for his iPad 2, which got stuck in the authentication issue but has been fine and using iOS 9.3. According to the user, the steps are: "a) Connect the iPad to iTunes on your computer using the cable; b) Switch off the ipad while still connected; c) Press the on/off switch and the home button at the same time until you get the apple logo followed by the charging cable logo pointing to itunes; d) The iPad will now be detected by iTunes; e) Use the restore option."
In the meantime, it is strongly recommended to back up important files before starting the update process or do not update at all until everything has been sorted out.
Apple has not yet issued an official statement regarding the matter.
