Apple has released iOS 17.6, a significant update that focuses on bug fixes and security patches.
The iOS 17.6 Security Updates have been published. There are 30 new security updates in iOS 17.6 so I would definitely update if you aren’t on iOS 18 Betas.https://t.co/A1nEEzhv5O
— Aaron Zollo (@zollotech) July 29, 2024
The update is available for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Plus, iPhone XR, and later models, including iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and the second-and third-generation iPhone SE. The update introduces a few new features, such as the Catch Up feature in the Major League Soccer Pass, which shows selected snippets from the game if you tune in late.
iOS 17.6 is out to everyone. Here is what’s new.
Full video here: https://t.co/Iv0yKKnIHY pic.twitter.com/dtetLnWmCu
— Aaron Zollo (@zollotech) July 29, 2024
Additionally, the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature is now available in Japan, helping users in emergencies when they are out of cellular range. However, the most critical aspect of this update is the 35 security updates it includes. These updates address vulnerabilities, notably in the iOS Kernel and WebKit, which are essential components of the operating system.
Overshadowed by Apple Intelligence, Apple also released iOS 17.6 today with some important fixes!
Here's what's new: https://t.co/Qd3pXzwBIh pic.twitter.com/nYh0GEq8Wr
— Brandon Butch (@BrandonButch) July 29, 2024
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) has issued an alert, strongly recommending users to upgrade due to the security concerns addressed in this release. Apple has provided limited details about the fixes to prevent attackers from exploiting these vulnerabilities. Among the notable security fixes in iOS 17.6 are two significant Kernel flaws.
I'm volunteering* to stay on the iOS 18.0 beta train, to observe progress up to September launch. These are the sacrifices I do for you.
*not forced to thanks to my Apple Unintelligent A16 Bionic phone, nah no way
— Benjamin Mayo (@bzamayo) July 29, 2024
The first issue allows an adversary to determine the Kernel memory layout, and the second could enable an attacker to cause unexpected system shutdowns.
iOS 17.6 security updates
Both vulnerabilities require physical access to the iPhone to be exploited.
Sean Wright, head of application security at Featurespace, emphasized that the Kernel flaws could potentially be chained with other vulnerabilities to completely compromise the device. Users have reported mostly positive reactions, with some noting a smoother experience and fixed issues, such as a volume slider bug. However, there are usual concerns about large file sizes and occasional overheating after installation.
Given the critical security updates and the lack of significant new problems reported, it’s advisable to upgrade to iOS 17.6. The CISA’s recommendation further underscores the importance of this update. Alongside iOS 17.6, Apple has released several other updates, including iOS 16.7.9 for older iPhones, Safari 17.6, macOS Sonoma 14.6, macOS Ventura 13.6.8, macOS Monterey 12.7.6, watchOS 10.6, tvOS 17.6, and visionOS 1.3. These updates similarly address multiple security flaws. Though none of these issues are currently known to be exploited in real-world attacks, they pose substantial security risks.
Users are advised to update to iOS 17.6 as soon as possible to ensure their devices remain secure. Keeping devices up to date with the latest software is crucial for maintaining security. Do not delay—upgrade your iPhone to iOS 17.6 now.
