iPad Update brand new device to iOS 11 before setup/activating?

[Coxy]

Is it possible to update a brand new iOS device to a newer software version straight out of the box without setting it up/activating?

I have a new iPad Pro coming today and would like to use the iOS 11 new device setup feature. I have a Mac here with me if an iTunes update is necessary.

Thanks in advance for any help

 

[garlicbread24]

I don’t believe so. Needs to be setup first. However you can update and then reset all settings to setup again

 

[Coxy]

Hmmm, I thought as much. I wonder if it can be put straight into recovery mode and then I can upload the IPSW via the Mac?

 

[C DM]

Hmmm, I thought as much. I wonder if it can be put straight into recovery mode and then I can upload the IPSW via the Mac?

If you put it into recovery mode it should pull the latest update from Apple on its own as part of the recovery process.

 

[Royksöpp]

Just put in your wifi password and leave all the other options blank, then download the update when iTunes asks, unplug tor iPad and wait for the download to finish. Go to your library-iTunes-iPad software updates then copy it to the desktop. Plug your iPad back in and hit option and click restore. Locate the file on your desktop and restore!

 

[Coxy]

Awesome thanks guys!