Apple has released iOS 14.8, alongside iPadOS 14.8, watchOS 7.6.2, and macOS Big Sur 11.6, patching some security issues that the Cupertino firm believes are actively exploited. Apple says the new software – released for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac today – is suggested for all users.
“This update provides important security updates and is suggested for all users,” Apple warns.
For iOS and iPadOS, the two exploits specialize in CoreGraphics and WebKit. With the previous, “a maliciously crafted PDF” could allow unauthorized code to be executed when opened on an iPhone or iPad. “Apple is conscious of a report that this issue may are actively exploited,” the corporate says.
For the WebKit exploit, it’s an identical issue. However, there, it’s “maliciously crafted web content,” which Apple says could “lead to arbitrary code execution.” Again, there’s a minimum of one report that the matter has been actively exploited within the wild.
For the Apple Watch, only the CoreGraphics issue may be a concern and addressed with watchOS 7.6.2.
While security patches like this aren’t as exciting as those updates which introduce new features, they’re usually even more important to put in. Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t said just what percentage samples of the exploits are identified. Still, given the number of iPhones, iPads, and other devices are around, they create an unsurprisingly tempting target to hackers.
For iPhone and iPad, the new iOS 14.8 and iPadOS 14.8 are available for iPhone 6s and later, iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air 2 and later, iPad 5th generation and later, iPad mini 4 and later, and iPod touch (7th generation). For watchOS 7.6.2, meanwhile, anybody with an Apple Watch Series 3 or later can install the new software.
You can prompt an update by getting to Settings on your iPhone or iPad, choosing “General,” then “Software Update.” Alternatively, your device should eventually prompt you to put in the remake.
Expected to be fast incoming, meanwhile, is iOS 15. the newest version of Apple’s software for iPhone will include features sort of a new Safari interface, Focus moments for more granular control over what alerts and notifications show up and when, and an updated privacy system to regulate just what data apps and services can collect on you. iOS 15 is about to be the preloaded OS of the new iPhone 13, which we’re expecting to ascertain Apple unveil at its big fall event tomorrow, September 14.
