This is what Apple’s new iPhone update contains

Apple has released a new iPhone update, iOS 17.6. Although it does not contain any new features, it is intended to close numerous security gaps.

iOS 17.6 was supposed to be released in mid-July 2024. However, the release was postponed. After a beta test phase lasting several weeks, Apple has now finally released the new iPhone update.

iOS 17.6: New iPhone update closes security holes

iOS 17.6 does not contain any new functions, but some features have been slightly adjusted. For example, if you receive an invitation to a family profile, you now have the option to accept or decline it.

iOS 17.6 is primarily intended to close several security gaps. According to Apple, several minor and major errors have crept into the kernel of the browser engine WebKit, among others. This meant that in some cases attackers could access sensitive data such as contacts via the lock screen.

Due to an authentication problem, third parties were also able to view albums with hidden images via the Photos app. Apple says it has solved this problem with improved status management in iOS 17.6. In a similar way, the iPhone company has eliminated a bug that allowed access to private browser tabs.

When is iOS 18 coming?

iOS 18 is expected to be released in September. Developers have been able to test a first preliminary version since June 11, 2024. The official and public beta version followed in July 2024. According to Apple, the update should run on all devices that support iOS 17. In concrete terms, this means on all devices built in 2018 – from the iPhone XS and XR onwards.

The iPad update iPadOS 18 will be released at the same time as iOS 18. Both versions will include the AI ​​system Apple Intelligence, among other things. According to Apple, this will be able to generate text and images and edit photos. The functions of Apple Intelligence will be made available for the first time with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 and will be gradually expanded.

Install iOS 17.6

iOS 17.6 has been available for free download since July 30, 2024. Apple traditionally recommends installing it as soon as possible. The iPhone update is available for all models from the iPhone XS upwards. The version can be downloaded via the device settings under “Generally” and “Softwareupdate“ can be downloaded.

With iPadOS 17.6, Apple has also presented a new update for the iPad. The new software is available for all devices from the second generation iPad Pro (12.9 inches), the third generation iPad Pro (10.5 inches), the first generation iPad Pro (11 inches) and the third generation iPad Air. This also applies to the sixth generation regular iPad and the fifth generation iPad Mini.

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