Apple has issued an alert advising all iPhone users to update their iPhone software ASAP – and there’s a very good reason why.
The latest update, iOS 17.4.1, an addition to iOS 17.4, has only just been issued.
However, its importance stems from more than its ability to fix several bugs.
It also has some important security fixes that all iPhone users should apply.
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Apple’s iOS 17.4.1 update has been a long time coming after it was claimed iPhones would ‘never be the same again’ after the iOS 17.4 upgrade.
iOS 17.4 was a much bigger change that tweaked how open the iOS ecosystem is in Europe to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act.
News that Apple was preparing a follow-up iPhone upgrade first dropped around two weeks ago.
And it’s been hotly anticipated since, with most guessing it would make an appearance on Monday or Tuesday.
However, despite the usually rigid Apple schedule, it unusually appeared on a Thursday.
Whenever Apple sends out one of these updates, it releases a short notes section to explain the changes.
This time the statement was exceptionally brief.
“This update provides important bug fixes and security updates and is recommended for all users,” it said.
It’s thought that the vagueness is deliberate and an attempt to prevent hackers from taking advantage of iPhone vulnerabilities.
Glitches in new and existing iPhone models are always expected.
This was certainly the case with iPhone 15 devices being put to full volume back in 2023.
Therefore, solutions to any glitches are always welcome.
With smartphone security so important, iPhone users should take Apple’s advice and download this update at the first available opportunity.
You can do this by heading to your ‘Settings’ app, tapping on ‘General’, and then selecting ‘Software Update’ – simple.
Your iPhone will then take a beat to check for an update, before confirming that the update is available to download and install.
Choose either ‘Update Now’ or ‘Update Tonight’ – but bear in mind that your phone will restart when it’s finished and it can drain your battery.
If you’re aiming for an overnight upgrade, just remember to ensure your phone is connected to a power source – despite a former Apple employee advising against doing this regularly recently.
Supercar Blondie has contacted Apple for an additional comment.
Some of the images in this article were created using AI
