Introduction

Apple's much-anticipated iPadOS 18 update has had a rocky debut that left many M4 iPad Pro users frustrated. Shortly after the launch on September 17, users experienced significant issues that left their devices effectively bricked. This glitch forced many to make impromptu trips to the Apple Store, and the situation became a major point of contention among tech aficionados.

Halt of iPadOS 18 Update

In the wake of the launch debacle, Apple quickly halted the iPadOS 18 update specifically for M4 iPad Pro models. While some users managed to update their tablets without a hitch, a significant number faced catastrophic malfunctions where the update abruptly stopped, resulting in total shutdowns and an inability to reboot. This led to users being given the unfortunate news that in some cases their $1,000 devices would require full replacements.

Re-release of the Update

Just over two weeks later, Apple re-released the update under the new version 18.0.1. However, the company has not acknowledged the prior bricking issue in their patch notes, opting instead to echo the language used in the original 18.0 release. Users on platforms like Reddit began to notice the availability of the update late last Thursday, sparking a fresh wave of excitement tinged with anxiety.

User Experiences and Theories

Gizmodo performed a seamless update of their M4 iPad Pro from an earlier beta version, but speculation remains about what caused the issues initially. Some users theorized that complications arose for those transitioning directly from iPadOS 17.7. Despite multiple inquiries, Apple has yet to provide further information and has not clarified the cause of the original glitch.

New Features and Improvements

For now, early adopters who ventured into the realm of iPadOS 18 have enjoyed notable features such as the innovative Math Notes capability, which allows users to write equations directly. Moreover, Safari improvements now empower users to delete unwanted elements from web pages, enhancing the browsing experience. However, those awaiting the debut of Apple Intelligence features outside of beta will need to hold on until later this month, when iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 are expected to roll out.

Comparison with Other Devices

In contrast, other Apple devices have generally fared better with their updates. However, Apple Watch users who experimented with the watchOS 11.1 beta 3 found themselves facing device lock-ups after rebooting, leading to the temporary suspension of that beta version as well.

Conclusion

As Apple navigates these rocky waters, many users are left with a lingering wariness about updating their devices, fearing that history might repeat itself. Stay tuned for updates, as this story continues to unfold!