Apple issues iOS update and apology for Error 53 Touch ID issue


Apple in a statement to TechCrunch:

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 about a reimbursement.

This is a good feature, but missed the boat on implementation. Essentially it appears that if someone replaces their Touch ID/home button through a third-party repair service, it will fail a security check. This is a good thing to prohibit someone from tampering with the device security. The bad news is that it could disable the entire phone rather than just Touch ID.

It seems Apple has quickly addressed this and is offering some compensation for those affected.