Less than twenty-four hours after releasing the final version of iPadOS 18 for its tablets, Apple has pulled the iPadOS 18 update for M4 iPad Pro models, meaning the new software is no longer available for download and installation at this time. Such an action implies a serious problem.
A problematic case
The update shutdown appears to have been prompted by complaints from some 2024 iPad Pro owners who found that the update rendered their devices unusable. This is referred to as a “bricked” iPad. Customers who spent a small fortune on the M4 iPad Pro, which includes some high-end features like improved performance thanks to the M4 chip, a more immersive OLED display with richer colors, and improved accessories, are probably feeling bad.
Several people have reported on Reddit that interruptions in the setup process led to their iPads completely shutting down, requiring a full device replacement. This is especially unfortunate as owners of the M4 iPad Pro were eagerly awaiting the new features of iPadOS 18, such as improved multitasking capabilities and better compatibility with the Apple Pencil, which has been made even more responsive on this model.
Not all iPad Pro M4 owners have encountered any issues while installing the update, and it could be related to having previously installed the new iPadOS 17.7 update before installing iPadOS 18. Apple is likely working on fixing this major issue and will push out a patch in the coming days.
In general, it is better to wait a few days before installing a major version, there are regularly major problems such as reduced battery life, unexpected crashes and, in the worst case, a “bricking” of the device.
