Apple recently released the long-awaited iOS 18.1, and users with the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 lineups are buzzing about the new Apple Intelligence feature.
Also read: Here are the differences with the latest iOS 18.0.1 that are important for iPhone 16 owners
Apple Intelligence features are not available on iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, or earlier models. But that doesn’t mean iOS 18.1 isn’t necessary for these users. Because iOS 18.1 is loaded with 28 security fixes for all iPhone users.
Major security fixes
Issues with the iOS kernel and Safari browser WebKit are said to be fixed in an update. Fixed a kernel issue called CVE-2024-44239 that could allow apps to leak sensitive kernel state.
Two WebKit issues were also patched. The first issue, CVE-2024-44261, could allow an attacker to view restricted content from the lock screen, while the latter issue, CVE-2024-44244, could allow an attacker to view restricted content from the lock screen. Content security policies are no longer applied when downloaded.
Another issue is CVE-2024-44255, which allows malware apps to run shortcuts without the user’s consent. Three privacy bugs in Siri and a flaw that allowed hackers to penetrate through the web content sandbox were also fixed.
Other bug fixes
There was an issue with podcasts where unplayed episodes would be marked as played. This issue will be fixed in iOS 18.1.
Videos recorded at 4K 60 fps while the device is warm will experience stuttering when scrubbing video playback with Photos. This issue has been fixed.
Another issue fixed is the car’s digital key not unlocking or the vehicle not starting with passive entry after restoring from a backup or transferring directly from another iPhone.
We’ve received complaints that iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models fail to restart in certain situations. This has also been fixed.
call recording
This allows you to record live calls. You will be automatically announced that the call is being recorded.
camera control
This new feature allows iPhone 16 series users to switch to the front TrueDepth camera using the camera controls.
spatial camera mode
For users of iPhone 15 Pro or newer, a new spatial camera mode will be available that lets you capture spatial photos and videos.
Hearing test and hearing aids
Hearing test and hearing aid features require AirPods Pro 2 with firmware version 7B19 or later. The hearing test feature provides scientifically validated hearing test results, while the hearing aid feature provides personalized, clinical-grade assistance.
Hearing aid features are intended for people who are identified as having mild to moderate hearing loss. It automatically applies to music, videos, calls, as well as sounds in your environment.
Other improvements
Control Center now has new options to add individual connection controls and reset configurations. RCS Business Messaging allows you to connect with businesses via RCS. This requires support from your network provider.
