Thousands of iPhone 6 users may not be covered by insurers if their repaired phone becomes 'bricked' during a software update.
It can happen when a user has a screen repaired on the cheap by an unauthorised Apple outlet, and applies in the case of fingerprint sensors. The Irish Independent reports the problem arises when the owner then updates the device to iOS 9. An 'Error 53' message is displayed and the handset becomes unusable.
Apple says it's a security feature that prevents unauthorised tampering with the sensor
"When iOS finds an unidentified or unexpected Touch ID module, the check fails," said a section on Apple's website dealing with a deluge of users complaining about the problem.
"For example, an unauthorised or faulty screen replacement could cause the check to fail. This check keeps your device and the iOS features related to Touch ID secure."
The tech giant says using non-approved parts to fix the phone automatically voids the warranty, and a number of insurers won't say whether they'll cover a replacement.