“Apple has determined that, under certain circumstances, the screen on a limited number of iPad Air (3rd generation) devices may go blank permanently. A brief flicker or flash may appear before the screen goes blank,” Apple said in an announcement posted to its website. The affected iPad Air models were manufactured between March to October 2019. While Apple did not disclose how many affected models were affected, it does mention that the issue affects a “limited number” of devices. Any iPad experiencing the blank screen issue will be repaired by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider free of charge. No other iPad models are part of this program says Apple. Apple explains its free service process for the eligible affected devices as given below: Choose one of the service options below to have your iPad Air serviced. Your iPad Air will be examined prior to any service to verify that it is eligible for this program.
Find an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Make an appointment at an Apple Retail Store. Contact Apple Support to arrange mail-in service via the Apple Repair Center.
If you can, backup your iPad to iCloud or your computer before service. Learn more about preparing your iPad for service. Note: If your iPad Air has any damage which impairs the ability to complete the repair, such as a cracked screen, that issue will need to be resolved prior to the service. In some cases, there may be a cost associated with the additional repair. Please note that the new repair program covers affected iPad Air (3rd generation) devices for 2 years after the first retail sale of the unit.