Apple rolled out March 21 the new iOS 9.3 (build number series: 13E233) to eligible iPhones, iPads and iPods, but soon early updaters began complaining they could not go past the activation lock screen after installing the firmware, rendering their device unusable.
The activation glitch was primarily affecting older device series — the iPhone 5S, iPad Air and their earlier models.
Taking note of the issue, Apple halted the roll-out process and released a statement acknowledging the bug. The company promised to deploy a software patch in a few days, and in the meantime, offered a support document on its help page on how to retrieve Apple ID and password to unlock the device.
Now, the Cupertino-based company has released new iOS 9.3 bearing build number 13E236, which is said to fix the activation bug.
How to install latest iOS 9.3 update (build number: 13E236) on iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch:
Via OTA (Over-The-Air):
1. Settings >> General >> Software update
[Tip: Users' who want to install the update directly on the device via OTA, make sure to clear enough device storage space and also make sure the device has more than 50% battery life, before downloading the new OS firmware]
Via iTunes
1. Back up your iPhone or iPad with either iCloud or via iTunes.
2. Launch iTunes on your Mac or PC.
3. Make sure you're on the latest version of iTunes. Go to About and then Check for Updates or visit iTunes.com.
4. Plug in your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch if it isn't already.
5. Click on iPhone, iPad, or iPod in the top left navigation.
6. Click on the Check for Update button in the first section that contains information about your device and alternately you can click restore instead if you'd like to do a clean wipe with updated software.
7. An update should be recognised, click on Download and Update in the popup menu and agree to any terms or conditions.
8. Unlock your device with your passcode if prompted in order to continue with the upgrade.
