Tech giant Apple has released a patch for its iOS operating system in order to fix iPhones that were rendered completely unusable due to Error 53. The Error 53 is triggered when an unofficial repair shop replaces the iPhone's home button.

Tech experts said that Error 53 is related to the Touch ID fingerprint reader of the latest iPhone models. The fingerprint reader is part of the home button, which is used to unlock the device instead of manually putting a passcode.

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If a non-Apple technician tries to replace the damaged iPhone or iPad, updating the devices' operating system will result in the OS detecting a non-standard component. Once this happens, the device will automatically shut down and there is no way to restart it.

In late January and early February, thousands of iPhone users started to complain about Apple's policies. Users claim that their iPhones were completely bricked after updating their operating system.

Apple said that Error 53 is part of iOS' security feature in order to protect users. In a statement acquired by The Guardian, Apple said, "This security measure is necessary to protect your devices and prevent a fraudulent Touch ID sensor from being used. If a customer encounters Error 53, we encourage them to contact Apple Support."

Following the surge of negative remarks over its policies, Apple recently released a patch to fix the issue via an update version of the iOS 9.2.1 operating system. Apple said that it has extended its apologies to all customers who were inconvenienced by the problem.

Apple said that Error 53 is part of a factory test and was not intended to affect its customers. The Cupertino-based tech company also added that customers who paid for out-of-warranty replacement for their bricked devices due to Error 53 will be properly reimbursed.

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