Apple released iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 with a number of bug fixes and security patches that address issues with Siri, iCloud, crash detection, and more. The patch release follows the previous major update launch of iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 with a slew of new features, including support for Apple ID Security Keys and the HomePod 2, as well as updates to Emergency SOS via Satellite. The update, which started rolling out on Jan. 23, also fixed an issue that was causing horizontal lines to appear on iPhone 14 Max Pro units.
According to Apple’s official release notes for iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1, the update fixes at least two security vulnerabilities in iPhones and iPads. First is a kernel vulnerability that allows apps to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. The second fixes a WebKit issue that could allow arbitrary code execution if malicious web content is opened on a browser. Both issues affect the iPhone 8 and newer, all models of the iPad Pro, the iPad Air 3rd-generation and later, the iPad 5th-generation and newer, and the iPad Mini 5th-generation and later.
New iOS And iPadsOS Updates
Along with the aforementioned security patches, iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 also bring multiple bug fixes for a number of annoying issues in iPhones and iPads. Following the previous update, some users complained about various problems that cropped up after installing the new software. Users complained about their inability to back up to iCloud after downloading iOS 16.3. The latest update fixes that issue.
Another problem the new update fixed relates to the much-touted crash detection feature on the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max. The feature has already helped rescue crash victims in California but has also been known to trigger false alarms when users ride roller coasters or take minor tumbles on ski slopes. The issue has reportedly been playing havoc at amusement parks and ski resorts, with first responders having to deal with a deluge of erroneous automated emergency calls that put a massive strain on the emergency response systems.
Along with iOS 16.3.1, Apple also released new HomePod software version 16.3.2, which fixes an issue that could sometimes lead to Siri voice commands for smart home requests failing to work as expected. The update also brings general performance and stability improvements for Apple's newest smart speaker. Overall, iOS 16.3.1 and iPadOS 16.3.1 are important updates for iPhone and iPad users and should be installed as soon as possible to fix the previous version's security vulnerabilities and bugs.
Source: Apple