fApple on Monday released its first batch of publicly available “fast security” patches, aimed at quickly fix security vulnerabilities that are in active operation or present significant risks for their customers.
According a newSo-called Rapid Security Response updates “deliver significant security enhancements between software updates.”
Quick security responses were inserted to allow Apple customers to update their devices faster than a typical software update takes. Apple says that the feature is enabled by default and that some quick patches can be installed without a reboot, though not always.
The rapid security update arrives for customers running iOS 16.4.1, iPadOS 16.4.1, and macOS 13.3.1. Once installed, it will add a letter to the software version, such as iOS 16.4.1 (a) and macOS 13.3.1 (a). Users running earlier versions of Apple software will not receive the quick security fix. Apple said that the fixes will be included in subsequent software updates.
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But Monday’s launch hasn’t gone so well. Some customers said they couldn’t install the update. When TechCrunch tested on an iPhone, iPad, and Mac, the updates downloaded but did not install.
It’s also not immediately clear what this security update fixes, and Apple did not respond to a request for comment.
In recent weeks, researchers have discovered new exploits developed by spyware makers QuaDream and NSO Group aimed at iPhone owners around the world. Both spyware makers exploited previously undisclosed vulnerabilities in Apple software that allowed their government customers to steal data from a victim’s device silently.
Citizen Lab said last month that lock modea feature implemented by Apple last year to prevent similar targeted attacks, successfully blocked at least one exploit developed by NSO that it abused a vulnerability in Apple’s smart home feature, HomeKit.
Given the apparent seriousness of this latest security patch, we’ll keep trying to update, just like you.
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