Apple Releases iOS 14.4, Encourages Users to Update as Soon as Possible to Patch Active Bug Exploits

Apple has just released iOS update 14.4 and is encouraging every iPhone user to update their devices as soon as possible as the update fixes three critical vulnerabilities that could be exploited as of this very moment.

Update to iOS 14.4 Immediately

According to The Next Web, the tech giant didn't exactly detail what the active bugs were and how they can be exploited, only that they "may have been actively exploited."

Nevertheless, one of the bugs is related to the kernel, which allows the attacker to increase their privilege level and cause some serious damage to your device and even steal your important data, including your bank account details.

Meanwhile, the two other vulnerabilities Apple has found are related to the company's WebKit rendering engine, which powers Apple's internet browser, Safari.

Cybercriminals could use the exploits to execute an arbitrary code, which they would then use to spy on you, but unfortunately, it is still unclear whether the attacker requires physical access to your device or they could execute the whole thing remotely.

But if you don't want to find out, better to update your device now.

To update to iOS 14.4, to go your phone's Settings app, then choose General, and tap on Software Update to download the latest patch.

Feature Tweaks Available with iOS 14.4

Besides the bug fixes, Apple has also made a few feature tweaks that have launched with both iOS 14.4 and iPadOS 14.4, which is also now available and ready for iPad users to download.

According to MacRumors, the update should now provide support for smaller QR codes, meaning your iPhone camera should be able to recognize smaller QR codes and improve its overall QR code recognition.

Furthermore, the update also includes tweaking your device's Bluetooth settings, which now includes a setting to specify a device type for third-party Bluetooth-connected audio devices, so your iPhone should now measure your Headphone Audio Level accurately and notify you if your audio level can potentially damage your hearing.

Camera Authenticity and Time to Walk Stories

There is also now a camera authenticity warning included with iOS 14.4.

Basically, if you had your iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, or 12 Mini repaired and the repairman used a recycled camera from another iPhone 12 model or even a non-genuine Apple camera, your device will send you a notification.

According to the company, the notifications will be sent if the camera on your device is "unable to be verified as a new, genuine Apple camera."

There are several other feature tweaks and bug fixes included with the new update, including the Time to Walk stories, which appears on your Apple Watch Workout app that offer audio stories you can listen to when you exercise.

Each of the stories is 25 to 40 minutes long and features a variety of athletes, musical artists, and other influential people like NBA player Draymond Green and musician Shawn Mendes.

However, Time to Walk will only be available if you have connected your device to an Apple Watch with a watchOS 7.3 and if you have subscribed to Apple Fitness+.

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by: Nhx Tingson