iPhone Update: Apple Introduces Version 18.3.2 for iOS, Rectifies One Malfunction, Introduces Another Irritant
Rewritten Article:
Here's the lowdown on the latest iOS update, iOS 18.3.2, unexpectedly rolled out by Apple on March 11. This quiet release has stirred up some controversy, particularly due to its unwanted activation of Apple Intelligence, even for those who had previously deactivated it.
Unlike previous updates, which focused mainly on bug fixes and feature enhancements, iOS 18.3.2 deals with a daunting type of security issue — one that Apple considers is already being used in real-world attacks. Apple addressed a similar issue last year, in iOS 17.2, but this time they claim to have improved checks to prevent such unauthorized actions.
Rumors had suggested that an intermediate update was imminent, but many presumed it would arrive a week or more later. Unfortunately for Apple users, the update came with little notice.
Fun Fact: According to a recent report, iOS 18.3.2 affects iPhone models from the iPhone Xs (2018) onwards, encompassing the iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, and iPhone Xr, as well as every iPhone model released since then up to the latest iOS 16e.
Which iPhones Can Run iOS 18.3.2?
From the iPhone Xs onwards, all iPhone models can handle the iOS 18 update. This includes iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone Xr, and all subsequent iPhone releases, such as the second and third generations of iPhone SE, right up to the cutting-edge iOS 16e.
The Update and Its Components
Apple's compact update notes reveal that: "This update provides important bug fixes, security updates, and addresses an issue that may prevent playback of some streaming content." For more details on security concerns, users must wait for subsequent communications.
It's worth noting that Apple doesn't specify whether the streaming issue is exclusive to certain services or specific content. Presumably, if it had affected something high-profile like Severance on Apple TV+, users would have heard about it.
The security concern revolves around WebKit, a fundamental component of iOS that underpins Safari. This isn't the first time Apple has had to address such an issue, as they tackled a similar problem in an early version of iOS 17, ISO 17.2.
Is Your iPhone Running Low on Storage?
Some users have reported that the newer release turns Apple Intelligence on without asking for explicit confirmation. This is potentially problematic, as Apple Intelligence requires storage space of up to 7GB. If your iPhone's storage is nearly full, this upgrade could cause an inconvenience. To disable Apple Intelligence, navigate to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri and toggle the switch to off.
The solution is easy, although a heads-up from the software to confirm whether you want Apple Intelligence activated would have been nice.
Bonus Info: According to recent reports, an even more significant overhaul of the iPhone design is expected in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more details!
- The iOS 18.3.2 update, rolled out by Apple on March 11, has been linked to rumors of an intermediate update, despite the unexpectedly early release.
- The latest iOS update, affecting iPhone models from the iPhone Xs (2018) onwards, introduces a daunting security issue on WebKit, a fundamental component of iOS that underpins Safari, adding to the existing concerns over Apple Intelligence's unwanted activation.
- Securing more storage space on your iPhone is highly advisable, as the iOS 18.3.2 update may potentially activate Apple Intelligence, requiring storage space of up to 7GB – a nuisance for users with nearly full storage.
