A new Apple iOS update, with the intention of fixing security vulnerabilities, may be around the corner.
Technology websites MacRumors and 9to5Mac are predicting that an iOS 18.3.1 update will be released in a few weeks. The update would follow the late-January release of iOS 18.3, which included Apple Intelligence notifications and new Visual Intelligence options, like the ability to add an event to a device’s calendar by scanning a poster.
Since its release, iOS 18.3 has been making waves on social media, as users fear that Elon Musk’s Starlink, which offers direct-to-cell capabilities, is automatically downloaded onto devices with the update. However, this is not true. When an Apple user downloads the iOS 18.3 update, Starlink is not added to one’s device. The iOS 18.3 update just allows Apple users to download Starlink if they wish.
When it comes to iOS 18.3.1 though, MacRumors suspects the update will be “minor,” largely addressing security bugs.
Here’s what we know about iOS 18.3.1.
What will the iOS 18.3.1 update include?
Apple did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for information on Friday. Still tech reporters are speculating what iOS 18.3.1 may include.
MacRumors suspects the update will address “software bugs and/or security vulnerabilities” that may have been created with the iOS 18.3 update.
The update could be similar to iOS 18.2.1 which contained the description, “This update provides important bug fixes and is recommended for all users.”
Apple Intelligence notifications, which were released with iOS 18.3 have been temporarily disabled due to inaccurate summaries. It is unclear if these notifications will be turned back on with iOS 18.3.1, MacRumors reported.
When will iOS 18.3.1 be released?
Apple has not confirmed iOS 18.3.1, but MacRumors and 9to5Mac suspect it will be released in a few weeks.
What’s new in iOS 18.3?
For Apple users who haven’t downloaded the latest software update, here’s what to know about what’s new with iOS 18.3.
Users with an iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max will experience new Apple Intelligence notification summaries. The summaries feature italicized text, making them more distinguishable from other notifications.
Notification summaries for News & Entertainment apps have been temporarily disabled. Users who opt-in to the notifications will see them again once they are available.
The update also features updated Visual Intelligence for all iPhone 16 models. This update allows users to add an event to the Apple Calendar from a poster or flyer and identify plants and animals.
Source: iOS 18.3.1 is reportedly coming to iPhones soon: What we know about mystery update
