According to the iOS 16.5.1 release notes, the latest updates fix security issues in the kernel and WebKit that have been actively exploited in the wild.
On June 21, 2023 Apple launched software updates for the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch, patching security problems discovered in the kernel and WebKit.
The kernel interacts with all other parts of the operating system and the computer’s hardware. Because it controls everything in the system, any security holes in the kernel create potentially major attack vectors that compromise your security.
iOS and iPadOS 16.5.1, watchOS 9.5.2 and macOS Ventura 13.4.1 patch a security hole in the kernel that could let an app run arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
How to install the latest Apple updates
Apple is aware of reports that the issue “may have been actively exploited against versions of iOS released before iOS 15.7.” The company has addressed an integer overflow error causing this issue with “improved input validation.”
Go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch to check for software updates. On your Mac, click the Apple menu, choose System Settings, then navigate to General > Software Update.
Your device may be already up to date if the automatic updates feature has been turned on in the Settings app. You’re good to go if Software Update doesn’t discover any new updates. Otherwise, choose the option to download and install the update and be sure to keep your device plugged into power and connected to Wi-Fi.
What’s new in iOS 16.5.1, macOS Ventura 13.4.1 and watchOS 9.5.2?
iOS 16.5.1 and iPadOS 16.5.1 deliver several fixes, including one for a bug that prevents charging with the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter.
Aside from the aforementioned patch for the kernel issue across the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch, Apple has also fixed a WebKit issue on the iPhone, iPad and Mac where maliciously crafted web content could be executed. WebKit is the web rendering engine powering Apple’s Safari browser.
This security hole was also exploited in the wild.
Who should install these updates?
Everyone, without any questions. “Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited,” the company notes. The company describes this as “a type confusion issue” that it addressed “with improved checks.”
Apple’s devices have always been valuable targets for hackers of this world. You’re wholeheartedly recommended to install these updates to make your iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch more secure.
These security updates are also available for older Macs with macOS Monterey 12.6.7 and macOS Big Sur 11.7.8. Older iPhones and iPads can use iOS and iPadOS 15.7.7. As for older Apple Watch models, the watchOS 8.8.1 update will do the trick.
Read Apple’s support documents for more info
Apple provides security documents that outline the changes its software updates bring to the table, including a detailed breakdown of the security fixes. To learn more about the latest updates, peruse the following Apple pages.
Release notes:
- iOS 16.5.1 release notes
- iPadOS 16.5.1 release notes
- iOS 15.7.7 release notes
- iPadOS 15.7.7 release notes
- watchOS 9.5.2 release notes
- watchOS 8.8.1 release notes
- macOS Ventura 13.4.1 release notes
- macOS Monterey 12.6.7 release notes
- macOS Big Sur 11.7.8 release notes
Security fixes: