Apple releases 'Error 53' bug fix for iPhone, apologizes

CUPERTINO, Calif., Feb. 19 (UPI) -- Apple provided a fix for the "Error 53" bug that's plagued some iPhone owners who tried to replace home buttons at third-party repair stores.

On Friday, Apple released the fix as part of its operating system iOS 9.2.1 software update.

Devices fell into an "Error 53" when the newly installed home button -- the circular button at the bottom of the iPhone that returns users back to the home screen -- would not sync with the Touch ID functionality that allows for touchscreens to operate.

The error may have shut down the entire operating system and gone into what Apple calls "bricked" status. This renders the phone as useful as a brick.

"This reports as an 'Error 53' in iTunes and appears when a device fails a security test," a statement from Apple announcing the fix, said. "This test was designed to check whether Touch ID works properly before the device leaves the factory."

Apple said "Error 53" was designed as a factory test and 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.

The software update released this week was meant to undo the brick mode and return the phone back to normal operating capabilities.

"We apologize for any inconvenience," the statement from Apple said.