iOS 16.6 and different Apple updates deliver security fixes for many vulnerabilities, together with ones which were actively exploited within the wild.
On Monday, July 24, 2023, Apple launched iOS 16.6 and updates for its different software program platforms, bringing security fixes for the newest threats.
Apple additionally launched iOS 15.7.8, iPadOS 15.7.8, macOS Monterey 12.6.8 and macOS Big Sur 11.7.9 with the identical security fixes for older iPhones, iPads and Macs.
Accompanying launch notes state that iOS 16.6 and different updates present “important bug fixes and security updates and is recommended for all users.”
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iOS 16.6 brings essential security fixes
iOS 16.6 fixes over half a dozen vulnerabilities within the system kernel, the Find My app, Apple’s Neural Engine and extra. Among the fixes are patches for vulnerabilities discovered within the system kernel and WebKit, Safari’s format engine.
The kernel and WebKit vulnerabilities had been actively exploited, which means hackers have used them to goal victims. Apple beforehand fastened the WebKit vulnerability by issuing a Rapid Security Response iOS 16.5.1 (c) replace on July 12, 2023.
Rapid Security Responses are updates that ship essential security fixes between software program updates. Any fixes supplied in a speedy security response are later included in a subsequent software program replace. In this case, iOS 16.6 packs the identical mitigations for the WebKit flaw because the Rapid Security Response iOS 16.5.1 (c) replace.
The WebKit fix is individually included within the Safari 16.6 replace for macOS Big Sur and macOS Monterey. The kernel vulnerability was addressed on older gadgets with iOS 15.7.1, and iOS 16.6 brings the identical fix to all suitable gadgets.
Apple’s launch and security notes
Release notes:
Security fixes:
tvOS 16.6 additionally provides Siri help for Hebrew in Israel.
How to set up iOS 16.6 and different updates
To shield your self in opposition to these flaws, you’re wholeheartedly really helpful to set up iOS 16.6 and different updates utilizing the Software Update function:
- iPhone and iPad: System > General > Software Update
- Mac: System Settings > General > Software Update
- Apple TV: Settings > System > Software Updates > Update Software
- Apple Watch: My Watch > Settings > General > Software Update (Watch app on iPhone) or Settings > General > Software Update immediately on the gadget.
If no updates present up, meaning automatics updates are turned on for your gadget—congratulations, you’re already up to date and guarded!
If you at present use prerelease software program just like the iOS 17 beta, you gained’t see any updates to iOS 16 until you downgrade from iOS 17 to iOS 16.
