Apple's iOS 10 Download Was Bricking iPhones. It's Fixed Now

Another iOS release, another slew of devices experiencing temporary death. But after a rash of Twitter users reported that the iOS 10 update bricked their iPhones and iPads, Apple says it's fixed the problem.

"We experienced a brief issue with the software update process, affecting a small number of users during the first hour of availability," Apple said in an emailed statement. "The problem was quickly resolved and we apologize to those customers. Anyone who was affected should connect to iTunes to complete the update or contact AppleCare for help."

The problem doesn't appear to be as severe as iOS 7.0.6, which bricked the iOS 5 and iPad Air, or iOS 9.3.2, which bricked the 9.7-inch iPad Pro a few months ago, though it's certainly inconvenient for users who don't have an laptop or desktop nearby with iTunes on it. It also doesn't help Apple any that among the first people to rush to download iOS 10 are the reporters and tech luminaries that can draw attention to an embarrassing issue like this.

Anyways! Hopefully all should be well now, and if your phone was bricked, at least it's temporary. For the rest of you, please remember that being the first in line for new software is one of the worst bets you can make. As tempting as iMessage stickers are, maybe next time hold out for iOS 10.1.