Last Friday, iDigitalTimes' own Cammy Harbison reported a major issue known as "Error 53" when iPhone 6 users updated their phone to the latest iOS 9 firmware. According to reports from multiple users, once this mysterious "Error 53" appeared on screen after the update, the iPhone is effectively bricked as the prompt cannot be cleared from the screen. What's more, the only solution is to buy a new phone.
What exactly is "Error 53"? Apparently, the error affects the unfortunate owners that have taken their precious iPhone to an unauthorized repair shop after suffering a cracked screen or broken Home Button. While the iPhone may work out of the shop, it will remain dormant until the latest iOS 9 firmware update identifies the unauthorized repair and its use of unauthorized parts to prompt the notification.
Apple regards "Error 53" as a hardware problem that is caused by the user, which means Apple's standard warranty will not honor any repairs. On top of the financial inconvenience of buying a new phone, all photos, videos and other content that have not been backed-up will be gone forever.
In response to Apple's aggressive "Error 53" issue, Seattle law firm PCVA wrote on its website that it will begin an investigation on Apple to possibly motion a class-action suit against the Cupertino company. According to PCVA, "error 53" may be a deliberate tactic to force users into pay the more expensive prices that Apple charges for repairs.
PCVA wrote:
"We believe that Apple may be intentionally forcing users to use their repair services, which cost much more than most third party repair shops. Where you could get your screen replaced by a neighborhood repair facility for $50-80, Apple charges $129 or more. There is incentive for Apple to keep end users from finding alternative methods to fix their products."
Stay tuned as the story develops.
