By GhanaNewsPage 
Update (January 29, 2025): This article, initially published on January 27, now includes additional details on the security fixes in iOS 18.3, the newly introduced auto-enabled Apple Intelligence, and expert insights on the update’s significance.
For more info and clarification on iOS 18.3 details, visit the link below
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Apple Releases iOS 18.3 With Critical Security Fixes – Update Now!
Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18.3, urging iPhone users to update immediately due to critical security vulnerabilities, including one actively exploited flaw.
This latest software update addresses 29 security issues, enhancing device protection and patching vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.
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Key Security Fixes in iOS 18.3
One of the most critical patches in iOS 18.3 resolves an actively exploited flaw in CoreMedia (CVE-2025-24085), which allowed malicious applications to escalate privileges. Apple has confirmed reports that this vulnerability was exploited in attacks targeting versions of iOS before iOS 17.2.
Among other significant fixes, iOS 18.3 also addresses:
- Kernel Vulnerabilities (CVE-2025-24107): Malicious applications could gain root privileges, allowing full control over the device.
- AirPlay Security Flaw (CVE-2025-24137): Remote attackers could trigger unexpected application terminations or execute malicious code.
- Passkeys Exploit: Unauthorized access to Bluetooth could have compromised sensitive user data.
- Denial-of-Service (DoS) Vulnerabilities: Patches mitigate threats that could crash apps, interfere with system stability, or expose user data.
Security expert Sean Wright, head of application security at Featurespace, emphasizes the importance of this update, highlighting Kernel flaws as particularly dangerous since they could allow hackers to take complete control of an iPhone. He warns that while some vulnerabilities may be harder to exploit, the risk to users remains substantial if left unpatched.
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Apple Expands Security Patches Across Devices
Alongside iOS 18.3, Apple has released security updates for its broader ecosystem, including:
- iPadOS 18.3 and iPadOS 17.7.4
- macOS Sequoia 15.3, macOS Sonoma 14.7.3, and macOS Ventura 13.7.3
- watchOS 11.3, tvOS 18.3, and visionOS 2.3 (for Apple Vision Pro)
- Safari 18.3
These updates resolve many of the same security vulnerabilities affecting iPhones, reinforcing the need for users across all Apple platforms to install them as soon as possible.
Why You Should Upgrade to iOS 18.3 Now
Apple has yet to release an iOS 17.7.4 update, raising questions about whether iOS 17 devices remain vulnerable. This makes updating to iOS 18.3 the safest course of action.
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Michael Covington, VP of Strategy at cybersecurity firm Jamf, highlights that iOS 18.3 addresses threats that could enable attackers to bypass locked apps, corrupt system memory, and compromise web browsing security. He strongly recommends installing security updates as soon as they become available to protect against emerging threats.
Auto-Enabled Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.3
With the release of iOS 18.3, Apple Intelligence (AI) is now automatically enabled on supported devices, including the iPhone 15 series and later. This AI-powered update enhances:
- Siri’s capabilities, integrating ChatGPT via OpenAI for more advanced responses.
- On-device and cloud-based AI processing through Private Cloud Compute, ensuring privacy-focused operations.
Users should review their settings, as AI features require data processing, and when ChatGPT is used, OpenAI’s privacy policies apply rather than Apple’s.
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Compatible Devices for iOS 18.3
iOS 18.3 is available for the following devices:
- iPhone XS and later
- iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen+), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen+)
- iPad Air (3rd gen+), iPad (7th gen+), iPad Mini (5th gen+)
Final Thoughts: Update Now to Stay Secure
With an actively exploited vulnerability and multiple high-risk flaws, updating to iOS 18.3 is crucial for maintaining the security of your iPhone. Delaying updates increases exposure to cyber threats, making it imperative to install iOS 18.3 immediately.
To update your device:
- Open Settings > General
- Tap Software Update
- Download and install iOS 18.3
Don’t wait – secure your iPhone now!
#iOS 18.3
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