Apple Rolls Out iOS 17.4.1 Update: Bug Fixes, Security Patches Make Way To iPhone XS & Above Models

The release of iOS 17.4.1, the latest software update for iPhones, is accompanied by the simultaneous launch of iPadOS 17.4.1, offering comparable significant improvements and fixes.

Apple has announced the rollout of iOS 17.4.1 for eligible iPhone models, offering several bug fixes and security updates. This minor update comes shortly after the release of iOS 17.4 on March 5, which introduced support for third-party app stores in the European Union (EU), transcripts for Apple Podcasts, and new emoji. The latest iOS software update, iOS 17.4.1, is also accompanied by the release of iPadOS 17.4.1, which includes similar important fixes.

As per Apple's announcement, iOS 17.4.1 is available for download on iPhone XS and newer models, while iPadOS 17.4.1 can be installed on eligible iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Pro, and iPad Air models. Users with older devices such as the iPhone 8 series, iPhone X, and certain iPad models can download and install iOS 16.7.7 and iPadOS 16.7.7.

While Apple's release notes mention that iOS 17.4.1 brings "important bug fixes and security updates" and is recommended for all users, detailed information about the security vulnerabilities addressed in this update has not been disclosed yet. Apple's support page mentions that these details will be provided in the future.

iOS 17.4 Update

Earlier this month, Apple rolled out iOS 17.4 with significant changes for users in the EU to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act. These changes include allowing third-party app stores in the EU and offering options for users to set third-party browsers as default apps on iOS devices within the region. Notably, these changes are specific to iOS in the EU, as iPadOS 17.4 did not introduce these features.

The iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 updates introduced support for several new emoji, including mushroom, phoenix, lime, broken chain, and shaking heads. Users who have installed these latest versions will have access to these emoji, allowing them to send and view them in various apps after updating to iOS 17.4 or iPadOS 17.4.

Additionally, Apple enhanced its Stolen Device Protection feature in the iOS 17.4 update and introduced transcription capabilities for Apple Podcasts. Siri's functionality was also expanded to include reading messages in different languages. Moreover, owners of the latest iPhone 15 series will find new information in the Battery Health sections of the Settings app, including battery cycle count, manufacture date, and date of first use.