Can't update my iPad Air 2 from iOS 9 to iOS 12

[firesinis]

So I've kept my Air 2 in iOS 9 for the longest time and didn't bother to upgrade. Recently I've noticed some websites complain about Safari being outdated, so I decided it's time I move to iOS 12.

I went to Settings and was greeted with a message saying that my version of iOS doesn't support updating over the air to iOS 12, and I should do it via iTunes. Strange, but ok, to iTunes I went.

I connected the iPad to my Mac, which is running High Sierra and has the latest iTunes. iTunes opens and prompts me to update my iPad, it downloads the iOS file but then does nothing afterward. If I go to the device summary I see "Update" and "Restore" buttons, clicking either one does absolutely nothing.

Next thing I tried is to put my iPad in DFU mode, iTunes recognizes it and I again have the options of Updating or Restoring; Update still does nothing, the Restore option initiates the process and reboots the iPad; iTunes then says "waiting for iPad" while the iPad stays in the Apple logo screen and after 5 minutes iTunes says it can't update the iPad -- Unknown Error 4005.

I used some 3rd party iOS recovery tool and got my iPad out of the DFU mode and it still works just fine in iOS 9, but I'm stuck and unable to upgrade.

Anyone has any tips and/or pointers? Thanks.

 

[slooksterPSV]

Do you have a pc or can you download an older version of iTunes. IIRC there was an update bug in the latest iTunes.

 

[mikehalloran]

Here's the support bulletin.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204204#itunes

Since iOS 12 is supported on the Air 2, you can get help from Apple if necessary.

Although authorized service centers are supposed to be able to handle this, you really do want the Genius Bar at an Apple Store. If they can't get your iPad to accept the update (which preserves your data), they can force the iPad to reboot and install iOS 12 as a new iPad if necessary (this will wipe your data so make sure you back up first).

You will sign a waiver that you understand your data may be lost before a tech will touch it. Also, you will need to disable Find My iPad first.

I speak from recent experience.