Apple has released a new version of iOS 9.2.1, intended for those who are affected by “Error 53”. This error is usually caused by servicing hardware with Touch ID.
Interestingly enough, iOS 9.2.1 is the same version number that was released last month, but the updated build from 13D15 to 13D20 suggests the implementation of the Error 53 resolution.
As you can expect, this update won’t appear “over-the-air”, since it is intended for those who are already running iOS 9.2.1, and it’s intended to make restoring via iTunes possible for affected iPhones.
We recently wrote about this error, as well as about who can be affected and what to do if you iPhone gets bricked. The error was actually put in place as a security measure to protect fingerprint data that is saved locally on your phone.
It isn’t known how many people were actually affected by this error, but it caused enough attention to lead to a class action lawsuit in the U.S.
It is clear that Apple has implemented a solution in a timely manner. This is what the company had to say regarding the issue:
[quote]
Some customers’ devices are showing ‘Connect to iTunes’ after attempting an iOS update or a restore from iTunes on a Mac or PC. This reports as an Error 53 in iTunes and appears when a device fails a security test. This test was designed to check whether Touch ID works properly before the device leaves the factory.
Today, Apple released a software update that allows customers who have encountered this error message to successfully restore their device using iTunes on a Mac or PC.
We apologize for any inconvenience, this was designed to be a factory test and was not intended to affect customers. Customers who paid for an out-of-warranty replacement of their device based on this issue should contact AppleCare for a reimbursement.
[/quote]
Apple’s support documentation has already been updated, where you can find details regarding Error 53.
