Another iPhone update? Yep. This one has some serious security fixes
Apple’s rollout of the much-anticipated iOS 14.5 was a bit bumpy. Thanks to battery issues and locked features, some users were reluctant to update. But the patch fixed two important security issues.
This week, developers released another software patch to bolster the security of the iPhone (and add some cool new features). He addressed a wide range of exploits. For example, if you’re still browsing on an older operating system, you’re at risk of malicious audio files that hackers can use to break into your smartphone.
This is one of many vulnerabilities the iOS 14.6 update aims to fix. If you don’t update, you could put yourself at risk of other dangerous exploits. In fact, these security updates are so important, Apple implemented them on almost all modern iPhones, iPads, and even iPad Touch devices.
These updates make your Apple device’s security even stronger
While this new update offers several features that can make using your smartphone more fun, it is mostly important because of its security patch. We have mentioned some malicious audio files that bad actors can use to reveal your personal information. But there were also some major flaws in iOS’s core services that hackers could use as entry points to infect your system with malware.
In fact, Apple says it fixed 38 flaws with its latest update. One of the biggest security flaws plaguing macOS is malware that remotely snaps screenshots of your Mac.
Let’s say you were changing your password and you type in the “Show Password” button. This means someone can break into your computer, take a picture of your new password, and save it – right the minute you’re updating it.
Another threat Apple cut from the picture from WebKit, the engine behind Apple’s popular Safari browser. Security researchers found vulnerabilities that allow hackers to steal Internet cookies, giving them an “in” to break into your account. Apple is adding six improvements to WebKit so you can browse through Safari safely.
Bottom line: You should update sooner rather than later. Otherwise, you are leaving yourself open to all kinds of privacy violations!
To make sure you’re always on the latest version, go back to the Software Updates page in Settings and tap Automatic Updates. On the next page, toggle both the buttons next to Download iOS Updates and Install to the right to enable iOS Updates.
It’s not all that serious, though: Apple added some fun updates that users will love
When you update your device to iOS 14.6, you’ll notice some shiny new features, like:
Apple Podcasts subscription: Now you can make sure you never miss a new episode of your favorite show. Subscribing also means you can buy perks like bonus content, early access, and zero ads. Don’t miss the Kim K podcast. Tap or click here to listen at your leisure.
New perks for all podcast users (these apply even if you don’t subscribe): Apple is adding some new user-friendly features to make your listening experience as smooth as possible. Now you can delete downloads, recover old episodes and mark all episodes as played.
Updates that enable Family Sharing for Apple Card: You can now share an Apple Card between up to five people.
A big airtag update: When your item tracker is in missing mode, you’re usually required to provide your phone number as the contact method. Now you can choose to use your email instead.
If you’re unsure about how the AirTag works, we have a handy guide explaining these little gadgets. (Basically, they’re a life saver for someone who struggles to keep track of their gadgets.) Tap or click here to find out how they compare to some of the other device trackers on the market.
Of course, Apple has also made an effort to fix common complaints. Apple Watch iPhones failing to unlock as well as reminder issues, Bluetooth problems during calls, iPhones struggling to start up correctly, and even setting up call blocking extensions Not showing up is also a problem. The iOS 14.6 update should fix these issues.
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