I bought around 100 iPads back in 2020, mostly for a project related to Telehealth. Most have been used successfully, but now it's late 2025, and I've got about 20 that are still sealed in their boxes. Unfortunately, I've found that 6 of these unopened iPads just won't turn on. When I plug them in using the original Apple chargers, they briefly display the Apple logo but then switch off, only to repeat this cycle every few seconds. It's frustrating!
I've tried a bunch of different charging methods: letting them charge overnight with the stock charger, using a faster laptop charger, and even a slower computer USB port. I know how to put them into recovery mode, but they don't seem to get enough power to stay on long enough to work properly. At times they briefly respond while plugged in, but eventually, they just keep rebooting.
I suspect the batteries might be so depleted that they can't even start the firmware needed to charge correctly. I've heard that a jumpstart might work, but I'm not sure about that, or if it's even safe. Removing the batteries to charge them externally has crossed my mind, but it seems complicated since I lack experience. Any advice would be appreciated!
3 Answers
Another option might be to just leave the iPads plugged in for a long time, like 24 hours straight. Sometimes a deep charge can help get devices like these back to life.
Honestly, the most straightforward solution would be to replace the batteries. It might be more efficient than trying to jumpstart or revive these old units. You can always responsibly recycle the dead batteries afterward.
It sounds like these iPads are stuck in a cycle due to completely dead batteries. This can happen because when they’re too drained, the charger doesn’t kick in properly. A trick that sometimes works is to plug the charger in for just 2-3 seconds and then unplug it right away, repeating that process about 20-30 times. You want to avoid letting the iPad power up during this; otherwise, it might just drain again. This could allow just enough charge to build up for the iPad to turn on properly!
I can see this working. If the firmware is needed to begin the battery charge, you need to charge it without the firmware starting. I'd love to know if this works for you!
I appreciate the suggestion, but I’m a bit hesitant about battery replacement. I’ve read some complicated how-tos online, and I have zero practical experience with it!