Apple Issues Urgent Security Update for Millions of iPhone and iPad Users
A critical vulnerability, potentially exploited in targeted attacks, necessitates immediate action for older device models.
Apple has released an emergency update for millions of iPhone and iPad users, urging them to download it immediately to address a security flaw that could allow hackers to run malicious code through specially crafted files. The update, version iOS 26.7.1, is available for iPhone 11 and newer models still operating on older software versions.
The vulnerability affects CoreGraphics, the software responsible for displaying images and graphics on iPhones and iPads. Apple stated that this weakness "may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals" using iOS versions prior to iOS 27.
To install the update, users are advised to back up their device to iCloud or a computer, connect to a power source, and ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection. The update can be found by navigating to Settings, then General, and selecting Software Update. If an update is available, users can tap 'Download and Install' or 'Update Now', enter their passcode, and accept the terms and conditions.
Apple also offers options for automatic updates. Users can enable this feature in Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. 'Automatically Install' allows the iPhone to download and install updates overnight while charging and connected to Wi-Fi, with a notification preceding installation. Alternatively, 'Automatically Download' downloads updates when the phone is locked, charging, and connected to Wi-Fi, allowing users to install them manually.
The release of this separate security fix so soon after iOS 26.7 underscores the seriousness of the flaw. While Apple has not detailed the specific attack, its description of a sophisticated operation targeting individuals suggests the potential use of spyware, software designed to secretly monitor devices and collect private information.
Simultaneously, Apple released iPadOS 26.7.1, which supports a range of iPads including all 11-inch iPad Pro models, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (8th generation and later), and iPad mini (5th generation and later).
In addition to the security update for older software, Apple also issued iOS 27.0.1. This update specifically addresses bugs affecting the new iPhone 18 Pro models, which were released in September. Users of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max had reported random restarts after Face ID authentication failed. The iOS 27.0.1 update includes a fix for this issue, as well as a camera glitch that caused unusual colors in photos taken at 2x zoom under certain lighting conditions. A separate bug causing the touchscreen to freeze when simultaneously opening Notification Center and Control Center has also been resolved by this update, which could previously be circumvented with a forced restart.