How to Fix an iPad Stuck on Software Update

Resolve an iPad stuck on the software update screen. Follow these steps to force restart and restore your device using Finder or iTunes.

1. Perform a force restart. Press and quickly release the volume button closest to the top button. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button. Press and hold the top button until the Apple logo appears on the screen.
2. Connect iPad to a computer. Connect your iPad to a Mac running macOS Catalina or later using a USB cable. Open Finder. If you are using a PC or an older version of macOS, open iTunes.
3. Enter Recovery Mode. With the iPad connected, perform the force restart sequence: press and release the volume up button, press and release the volume down button, and hold the top button. Continue holding the top button even when the Apple logo appears until you see the recovery mode screen depicting a cable and computer.
4. Update the device software. When prompted on your computer, select Update. The computer will attempt to reinstall iPadOS without erasing your personal data. Wait for the download to complete; if the download takes longer than 15 minutes, the iPad will exit recovery mode and you must repeat step 3.
5. Finalize the installation. Once the process completes, the iPad will restart automatically. Disconnect the device from the computer and follow the on-screen prompts to finish the setup process. Confirm the update is successful by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update.