Close to the launch of Apple’s latest iOS 14.5 updates, the company rolls out iOS 14.4.2 iPadOS 14.4.2. and watchOS 7.3.3, this comes as a bit of a surprise. Yet Apple has asked users to immediately install it, why?
Here’s everything you need to know about iOS 14.4.2 and why you should upgrade.
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iOS 14.4.2 before the much-anticipated iOS 14.5 why? Do we need to download and install the update?
Certainly, the said update needs to be downloaded and installed by all Apple users. In response to a flaw reported by Clement Lecigne and Billy Leonard of Google Threat Analysis Group, the company has asked users to immediately install the update.
This file size of the security update is 203.9 MB, and it is detected due to a weakness CVE-2021-1879 (WebKit).
Like iOS 14.4.1, this update again is all about WebKit.
What vulnerability will this update fix?
A security flaw detected in the company’s WebKit, that allows hackers to inject malicious code onto affected devices, granting them access to user’s private data, like name, email address, and so on, will be patched by the update.
Was Apple aware of the flaw?
Apple says “processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to universal cross-site scripting. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited.”
The same is available in security support documents.
For who all is iOS 14.4.2, released?
The security patch is released for all iOS 13- compatible devices. This infers users using iPhone 6S and newer and iPod touch 7th generation can install it.
Is the iOS 14.4.2 update available for the older generation too?
To address the security flaw Cupertino giant is released iOS 12.5.2 update for older devices, and it is available for –
- 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPad Air
- iPad mini 2
- iPad mini 3, and
- iPod touch (6th generation).
Apple Watch users to are asked to download WatchOS 7.3.3 update. Doing so will patch the vulnerability.
How to download and install the update?
To download and install the update head to Settings > General > Software Update.
From here, you can download the update.
Note: To download and install the iOS 14.4.2 without any problem ensure you are using a stable internet connection and the device is fully charged, failing to do so might create problems.
What does the big iOS 14.5 update include?
iOS 14.5 is expected to introduce some new feature like:
- Long-awaited App Tracking transparency feature
- Default music player (YouTube Music, Spotify, and others) settings
- Dual-SIM 5G support
- Unlock iPhone using Apple Watch
- Support for next-gen Xbox Series X controller and PS5 DualSense.
Will the release of iOS 14.4.2 delay the big iOS 14.5 update?
The final version of iOS 14.5 is yet to be announced, so the date as to which it will be released is unclear. However, iOS 14.5 is available as a developer beta. This means if you have an Apple Developer account you can test out the features.
With all this coming to light, can we trust Apple, the company that says:
“Privacy is King”
“We’re in the business of staying out of yours.”
“What happens on your iPhone, stays on your iPhone.”
On basis of which it has been blocking or banning apps like:
Apple’s blocks M1 Mac Users from sideloading iPhone and iPad Apps
Do you think it is the right thing to do? Or, is Apple taking advantage of users’ trust, or is just ignoring the flaws it already knows exist?
After looking at this, can we trust any update Apple releases or are you willing to download iOS 14.5?
Related Reads:
Silver Sparrow Malware Targets Mac Machines including M1 Macs
How to Prevent Pornographic Virus Alerts From “Apple”
Do let us know what you think about this in the comments section below.
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