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This evening, Apple somewhat surprisingly released iOS 14.4.2, iPadOS 14.4.2, iOS 12.5.2, iPadOS 12.5.2 and watchOS 7.3.3 for all users worldwide.
Apple today released iOS 14.4.2 for iPhone and iPad and watchOS 7.3.3 for the Apple Watch. The updates contain important security fixes. However, exact details have not yet been given. The release note simply states:
This update contains important security updates and is recommended for all users.
The company has also released an update for iOS 12, version 12.5.2, so that users of the following models can benefit:
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 5s
- third-generation iPad mini
- first-generation iPad Air
- sixth generation iPod touch
According to Apple, these updates also contain important security fixes. Should Apple provide further information on the updates provide, we will report on it as usual.
iOS 14.5 in beta phase
iOS 14.5 is currently in the fifth beta. The update includes a handful of feature improvements, most notably the ability to unlock the iPhone with the Apple Watch while wearing a face mask – more about it here. The next iOS version will also introduce what is known as App Tracking Transparency. As a reminder:
After the release of iOS 14.5, all apps that access an iPhone’s advertising identifier “IDFA” will have to obtain the user’s permission before allowing tracking for personalized advertising.
The build numbers are:
- iOS 14.4.2 (18D70)
- iPadOS 14.4.2 (18D70)
- iOS 12.5.2 (16H30)
- iPadOS 12.5.2 (16H30)
- watchOS 7.3.3 (18S830)
(Photo by Blan-k / Bigstockphoto)
Update:
In the meantime, Apple has published the update description for iOS 14.4.2 in the corresponding support document According to the company, a security vulnerability in WebKit is fixed in iOS 14.4.2 & iPadOS 14.4.2. The support document states:
- Available for: iPhone 6s and later, iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air 2 and later, iPad 5th generation and later, iPad mini 4 and later, and iPod touch (7th generation)
- Impact: 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.
- Description: This issue was addressed through improved object lifetime management.
