Hi everyone,
I’m running into a bit of a loop with a new batch of iPads. I’ve successfully added the devices to Apple Business and assigned them to our Hexnode UEM server.
After performing a factory reset, the devices boot up but seem to get stuck right at the initial setup and won’t progress into the home screen automatically. Am I missing a step in the Automated Device Enrollment process? Any help would be appreciated!
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Thanks for raising this query!
Since the devices appear in your portal but apps aren’t pushing, the culprit is likely the VPP (Volume Purchase Program) configuration. Even for free apps, Apple requires a valid license to be associated with the device or the user to bypass the manual Apple ID sign-in during setup.
Here is the recommended workflow to get those iPads past the setup screen and fully functional:
Purchase Licenses in ABM: Log into your Apple Business Manager account, go to Apps and Books, and “purchase” the required amount of licenses for the Hexnode MDM app (and any other apps you need).
Sync VPP in Hexnode: In your Hexnode portal, navigate to Admin > Apple Business Manager > Apple VPP and trigger a manual sync. This ensures Hexnode “sees” the licenses you just acquired.
Assign the Licenses: Ensure your app deployment policy is set to use VPP licenses rather than requiring a personal Apple ID.
The Final Reset: Once the licenses are synced and assigned, perform one more factory reset on the iPad.
During the next activation, the device should recognize the assigned licenses, complete the enrollment profile installation, and push the apps without requiring manual intervention at the “Hello” screen.
Please do reach out to us if you have any more queries!
Regards,
Mary Romero
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