iPhone malware 
 Earlier this month we reported on Apple’s “Error 53″ message and how it bricked perfectly functional iPhones without warning, often after the devices were upgraded to iOS 9. Apple eventually clarified that the problem, which was limited to devices equipped with Touch ID, occurred if a third-party performed repairs to the device and replaced either the home button or the cable that connected the Touch ID sensor to the smartphone’s logic board.

Now, Apple has released a new build of iOS 9.2.1 that will “un-brick” devices previously crippled by Error 53. This new build of the operating system doesn’t include any other new features or capabilities, and it’s strictly meant for customers who currently have a $600 rectangular paperweight sitting somewhere around the house.

Initially, Apple defended bricking customer devices by claiming it did so to ensure Touch ID and Apple Pay were kept secure. This never made much sense, given the length of time that could pass between when a customer repaired a device and when the device failed. A security system that doesn’t lock down an insecure device for eight to 12 months isn’t particularly secure.

iPhone Error
Error 53
Now, Apple has backed away from this explanation altogether. In a statement to TechCrunch, Apple explained the problem thusly:
This reports as an Error 53 in iTunes and appears when a device fails a security test. This test was designed to check whether Touch ID works properly before the device leaves the factory.
Today, Apple released a software update that allows customers who have encountered this error message to successfully restore their device using iTunes on a Mac or PC.
We apologize for any inconvenience, this was designed to be a factory test and was not intended to affect customers. Customers who paid for an out-of-warranty replacement of their device based on this issue should contact AppleCare about a reimbursement.
There is one caveat to this update: Touch ID will no longer function on an iPhone that’s been repaired by a third party. First, kudos to Apple for doing the right thing on this issue. Disabling Touch ID if the component doesn’t authenticate properly is the sane way to deal with the problem, particularly when the alternative was bricking a device with zero warning or explanation. Given that Apple doesn’t license any third-party stores to provide repairs in the United States, this entire situation looked like an attempt to force people to pay whatever “official” rate Apple wanted to charge for device repair, while freezing small competitors out of business.
error-53
The Touch ID sensor. Image by iFixit

Giving users the option to decide if they want to pay for Apple to fix their Touch ID system is a much better way to deal with the problem. We’re also glad to see the company acknowledging users who were forced to buy new devices and offering them reimbursements for the expense. Presumably they won’t have to return the devices they purchased, since the original models were likely thrown away.