iPad Stuck on Loading Screen? Try These 7 Fixes

An iPad that is stuck on loading screen is a frustrating scenario that an iPad user may experience. This can happen for several reasons, from software issues to hardware problems.

But no need to worry about that. In this article, we will show you all the effective troubleshooting methods to help you fix the iPad stuck on loading screen screen.

Let's get started!

Why is My iPad Stuck on the Loading Screen?

There are a lot of reasons why your iPad may be stuck on the loading screen. The following are the most common of them:

• Your iPad may be running out of the storage.
• You recently updated the device and the update process may have failed.
• You restored the iPad and there was a problem with the backup file that you used for the restore.
• Corrupt data transfer or corrupt file on the device.
• You have jailbroken your iPad which can lead to many software issues.
• The hardware issue causes changes in the operating system or the files on the device.

Wait for Some Time

Regarding older iPad models, the automatical iPadOS updates can take longer to process than their newer counterparts. It's common for the iPad to appear stuck on load screen during this time, leaving you wondering if something went wrong.

Here's the lowdown: the key is to give your iPad the time it needs to complete the update. Even if it seems like it's at a standstill, the device could simply be chugging along at a slower pace.

Meanwhile, charge your iPad for at least an hour and check to see whether it turns on. Even if it is unlikely to solve the problem, it is still worthwhile to ensure that your battery is fully charged so that you can try some of the other troubleshooting steps.

Force Restart Your iPad

A force restart is usually the first recommended solution for many iPad problems. Force restarting your device will refresh the apps' memory without deleting data stored on your phone.

So by doing a force restart, it may solve glitching apps or firmware crashes on your iPad. Even if it works temporarily, you can backup your data before attempting any more solutions.

Here's how to force restart your iPad:

For iPads with Face ID or Touch ID

• Step 1: Press and very quickly release the Volume Up Button.
• Step 2: Press and then very quickly release the Volume Down Button.
• Step 3: Press and hold the Top Button. Release it when the Apple logo appears.

For iPads with a Home Button

• Step 1: Press and hold the Top Button and the Home Button at the same time.  
• Step 2: Release both buttons when the Apple Logo appears on the screen.

Update Your iPad's Software Using iTunes

Having outdated software on your iPad can also cause problems with the device's function which may in turn cause it to get stuck on the loading screen.

Since you are unable to update the device via settings, you can use these steps to update it in iTunes:

• Step 1: Make sure that you have the latest version of iTunes installed on the computer. Connect the iPad to the computer and then open iTunes.
• Step 2: Select the iPad in the top-left corner and then go to the "Summary" tab.
• Step 3: Click on "Check for Updates" and if updates are available, click "Download and Install" to update the device. Restart the iPad when the update is complete.

You will only be able to use iTunes to update the device if iTunes can detect the connected iPad. This may not be possible if the iPad is unresponsive.

Fix Your iPad Effectively with TinyFix

If the above 3 solutions fails to work, we suggest that you try an iOS system repair tool such as TinyFix, which is one of the best troubleshooters that can help you get to the bottom of the issue and repair your iPad in minutes, even if you are unsure of what is causing the problem.

This program is specifically designed to repair up to all common kinds of iPadOS issues  including iPad stuck on loading circle and even provides a safe and simple platform to refresh the operating system on the device without any issues and data loss.

What's more, it is compatible with all iPad models and all versions of iPadOS and it also has a simple user interface that can make the repair process very simple.

Here's how easy it is to restore your iPad to normal function using TinyFix:

Step 1: Download and install TinyFix on to your computer.

Step 2: Open it and then select "iOS System Repair" in the main window. Connect the device to the computer and then click "Start."

Step 3: Choose "Standard Repair Mode" and when prompted.

Step 4: Click on the "Download" option to download the firmware needed to fix the device.

Step 5: Click "Fix Now" after the download is complete. TinyFix will repair the iPad and it will restart in normal mode as soon as the repair is complete.

Restore iPad in Recovery Mode Manually

Manually putting and restoring your iPad in recovery mode can be a great way to resolve any stuck issues on your iPad. The process is different for the different iPad models.  

Here's how to do it:

Step 1. Start by putting your iPad in Recovery mode. The steps are quite different between generations of iPad models. Follow these instructions below

Put iPads with Face ID in Recovery mode:

• Step 1: Press and Hold down the Power (Sleep/Wake) button at the top of the device and the Volume Dow button at the same time.
• Step 2: When you see the "Slide to Power Off" slider appear on the screen, drag the slider to the right to turn off the device.
• Step 3: While holding the Power Button, use a USB cable to connect the iPad to the computer. Continue to hold the button until the recovery mode screen appears.

Put iPads with a Home Button in Recovery mode:

• Step 1: Press and hold the Power button at the top of the device. Drag the slider to the right to turn off the device.
• Step 2: While still holding the Power button, connect the iPad to the computer using USB cables.
• Step 3: Now press and hold the Home Button and keep pressing it until you see the "Connect to iTunes" screen.

Step 2. iTunes will prompt you to restore or update the device. Choose "Update" first and allow iTunes to install the latest iPadOS.

Step 3. If you are unable to update the device, choose "Restore" and iTunes will erase the device and restore it to factory settings.

DFU Restore Your iPad

If all other solutions don't fix the issues, you can try the deepest form of restore possible, Device Firmware Update (DFU) restore. DFU is different from all other forms of restore in that it will reload the iPad's firmware, not just the software.

This is especially essential if hardware malfunctions are affecting the software function of the device as firmware reprogramming can control how the hardware works.

Because this solution is often considered too much, Apple doesn't provide the steps you need to perform a DFU restore. But iMore has described the entire process in this article previously. If the process doesn't work, come back here for additional solutions.

Repair Options

If none of the solutions above fixes the device, it is time to consider getting the device repaired by a professional. If the iPad is still under warranty, Apple should cover the cost of the repair as long as the device doesn't have any additional damage.

Usually, if you find the software fixes we have recommended above are not working, it means that there is liquid or physical damage that may require closer scrutiny. Apple should solve the issue for you as they can very easily replace any hardware parts that may be causing the problem.

Always Have a Backup

If there's one thing to learn from this situation, it's the importance of always having a backup.

iCloud Backup

The first step to securing your iPad's data is setting up an iCloud backup. Think of it as a fail-safe mechanism that operates seamlessly in the background, eliminating the need for constant worry. By enabling iCloud Photo Library, you're not just protecting your photos and videos but creating a digital fortress for your memories.

Local Backup

If you prefer a hands-on approach, making local backups using a Mac or Windows PC is the way to go. This method gives you a tangible copy of your iPad's data, offering an additional layer of security.

Simply connect your iPad to your computer, open iTunes or Finder, and initiate the backup process. This straightforward method ensures you have a physical copy of your data on hand, providing peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Wrap Up

Of all the common iPad stuck issues, an iPad stuck on the loading screen is one of the most common. And as you can see from the solutions above, you can overcome this problem.

Start with a force restart and then implement the more complex solutions as needed: just be sure to follow the instructions outlined above.