Apple is urging millions of its iPhone users to go into their settings and install the latest software update. The urgent update was released on Wednesday and should be installed as soon as possible to protect their devices against dangerous hacks and exploits.
Apple URGES all users to update their iPhones
Apple released its latest iOS operating system, 15.6.1, on Wednesday and is urging all users to install the update as soon as possible in order to protect their device from hacking and security exploits, the Sun reported.
“This update provides important security updates and is recommended for all users,” Apple said in the release.
Apple said the update was aimed at patching “actively exploited” vulnerabilities, ARS Technica reported.
Another major reason to update is that this latest operating system release includes numerous bug fixes and performance improvements.
In particular, the updates will bring improvements to the Safari browser, as well as some changes to the TV app, 9to5Mac reported.
How to update
The update is a free download from Apple. To update your device go to: Settings > General > Software Update. You may need to plug your phone in to charge while the update installs.
Can your device be updated?
Depending on when your iOS device was manufactured and its model, not all devices will be compatible with the new iOS 15.6.1 or iPadOS 15.6.1 software.
However, if your device is compatible, a download will appear in your general settings as being available.
If your device is not compatible, a download for a software update will not appear.
Update iPads and iPods
Apple also urges all users of other devices, such as iPads and iPods, to go into the general settings of their Apple device and see if an update is available for that particular device.
Apple issued a new dedicated iPadOS 15.6.1.
Update your Mac
Apple also issued a new macOS update, 12.5.1, which also was directed at tightening security against any vulnerabilities that “may have been actively exploited.”
New operating systems coming in the fall
Apple is currently working on updates for its iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other iOS devices, which are slated for release in the fall, potentially by September.
These updates are labeled iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura, respectively.
Rumor has it that the iPhone 6S, iPhone 7, and 1st-generation iPhone SE will not run iOS 16. Thus, the current iOS 15.6.1 will be the last software update for those models.
Some models older than those may not run iOS 15.6.1. Users who aren’t unable to update are then faced with potentially having devices with potential security vulnerabilities. Most experts advise users with older devices that can no longer receive software updates to consider upgrading to a newer model.
