Introduction to the Latest Updates
Apple has recently released crucial updates for its operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. These updates are aimed at fixing several security vulnerabilities and enhancing the overall performance of the devices. The updates extend to older versions of the operating systems as well, ensuring a wider range of device security.
Details of the iOS and iPadOS Updates
The iOS 17.6 update comes with over 30 security fixes that address vulnerabilities in WebKit, Siri, Shortcuts, and various kernel-level flaws. The update is available for iPhone XS and later models, while iPadOS 17.6 is available for a broad range of iPads, including the iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation and later, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, iPad 6th generation and later, and iPad Mini 5th generation and later.
Apple has also released iOS 16.7.9 and iPadOS 16.7.9 for older devices such as iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPad 5th generation, iPad Pro 9.7-inch, and iPad Pro 12.9-inch 1st generation. Additionally, iOS 15.8.3 and iPadOS 15.8.3 are available for iPhone 6s, iPhone 7, iPhone SE (1st generation), iPad Air 2, iPad Mini (4th generation), and iPod Touch (7th generation). While the iOS 15.8.3 updates do not have any published CVE entries, updating is still recommended for security purposes.
MacOS 14.6 Features and Fixes
The macOS 14.6 update introduces a significant new feature for the M3 MacBook Pro, adding support for multiple displays. This feature was strangely absent before, even though the M3 MacBook Air had it since launch. Additionally, the update addresses a critical issue in macOS Monterey tracked under CVE-2024-2329, which allowed attackers to access arbitrary kernel read and write rights.
Safari 17.6 for macOS Monterey and macOS Ventura introduces eight security fixes, bolstering the browser’s defenses against potential threats.
New Features in iOS 17.6
The iOS 17.6 update introduces a new feature called ‘Catch Up,’ available exclusively in the Apple TV app for sports events. This feature allows users to view highlights such as goals and penalties if they join a live game in progress. Additionally, the ‘Recently Deleted’ section in the Photos app has been updated to clearly warn users that deleted content will be permanently erased.
Moreover, iOS 17.6 includes support for Emergency SOS via satellite in Japan. This marks the last feature updates for the current generations of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, as Apple shifts its focus to developing iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 Sequoia, expected to release in September.