By Dan Moren

February 18, 2016 10:52 AM PT

Apple issues iOS update to fix phones bricked by Error 53

Note: This story has not been updated for several years.

TechCrunch reports that Apple has released a patched version of iOS 9.2.1 specifically for phones disabled by Error 53. It’s only available for updates via iTunes, not over-the-air, and it will not restore the functionality of Touch ID–that’s still a security issue. But it will unbrick your phone, so there’s that.

Apple also told TechCrunch that the bricking was apparently a bug, saying that Error 53 “was designed to be a factory test and was not intended to affect customers.” So perhaps we can dispense with the “Apple doesn’t want you to get your phone fixed anywhere else!” narrative.¹ Because if they did let you swap in a new Touch ID sensor instead, well, the FBI–and anybody else who cared to–would have a pretty easy time unlocking any iOS device they want.

[Dan Moren is the East Coast Bureau Chief of Six Colors. You can find him on Mastodon at @dmoren@zeppelin.flights or reach him by email at dan@sixcolors.com. His latest novel, the supernatural detective story All Souls Lost, is out now.]

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