Recently, Apple has released iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4 updates for its iPhone and iPad operating systems, respectively, to address more than 30 security vulnerabilities. The updates are available for iPhone 8 and subsequent models, third-generation iPad Air tablets and later versions, fifth-generation and later models of the iPad and iPad mini, and all iPad Pros. The fixes include two vulnerabilities affecting the operating system core kernel, which is a program that acts as the primary interface between a computer and its hardware, managing components such as memory and system devices. If exploited, these vulnerabilities can allow rogue users to bypass security measures and compromise the entire system.
Another potential flaw was discovered in Apple’s Neural Engine, the component that optimizes and accelerates processes and machine-learning tasks on its devices. A fix was issued for the AppleMobileFileIntegrity kernel extension, which removes potential access to protected parts of Apple’s system and user-sensitive data. Additionally, a patch was released to prevent apps from accessing a user’s contacts in its accessibility and identity services.
Moreover, Apple has fixed an issue on Find My, its service for tracking its devices, where an app could read sensitive location information. On WebKit, Apple’s engine designed for its Safari internet browser, the company released a patch to prevent apps from tracking sensitive user information.
In addition to the security updates, the iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4 releases feature 21 new emojis, notifications for web apps on the home screen, and voice isolation that blocks out ambient noise and prioritizes the user’s voice during calls. The release also optimizes the crash-detection feature on iPhone 14 devices and fixes an issue in which “Ask to Buy” requests from children may fail to appear on their parents’ device.
Furthermore, Apple also issued a software update for its older devices, including the iPhone 6, iPhone 7, first-generation iPhone SE, iPad Air 2, fourth-generation iPad mini, and seventh-generation iPod touch devices, which also deals with security vulnerabilities. The fixes for these devices are available in the iOS 15.7.4 and iPadOS 15.7.4 updates.
It is worth noting that Apple does not disclose details about vulnerabilities until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available. The company prioritizes customer protection by providing minimal information about the security issues it addresses.
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