Apple rolls out iOS 18.3.2 with critical software patch for zero-day bug in iPhone

The new iOS 18.3.2 update enhances the security of the iPhone against targeted cyber attacks.

Apple has rolled out a new iOS update with a critical software patch to all eligible iPhone variants worldwide.

The latest iOS 18.3.2 (in 704.2 MB size) comes with a critical security update to fix a previously unknown Zero-day bug in iPhone. This vulnerability allowed threat actors to divert users to compromised websites that can bypass security to insert maliciously crafted web content to the device. This is usually done by hackers to take control of the device to steal sensitive information or track a targeted person.

For the uninitiated, zero-day means a software security vulnerability, where the concerned experts (in this case, engineers at Apple) were previously unaware of its existence, but some hackers may have exploited it to attack systems.

Apple had previously rolled out iOS 17.2 update with similar security features in December 2023 to prevent cyber attacks. This new iOS 18.3.2 update will further enhances the security of the iPhone against targeted attacks.

Even iPads have received the iPadOS 18.3.2 update with the same zero-day bug security patches.

All device owners are advised to update their devices to the latest version as soon as possible to safeguard against emerging cyber threats.

Apple iOS 18.3.2 update.

List of iPhone models eligible for iOS 18.3.2 update:

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone SE (2nd generation or newer version).

List of iPad variants eligible for iPadOS 18.3.2 update:

iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen and newer version), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen and newer models), iPad Air (M2), iPad Air (3rd gen and newer variant), iPad (7th gen and later), and the iPad mini (5th gen and newer version).

Here's how to install the iOS/iPadOS 18.3.2 on iPhones and iPads:

Via OTA (Over-The-Air)

Prerequisite: Users who want to install the update directly onto the device through OTA must ensure there is enough storage space and that the device has more than 50 per cent battery life before initiating the download of the new iOS/iPad update.

Step 1: Settings >> General >> Software update

Via manual installation through Apple iTunes

Prerequisite: Before initiating the download procedure, back up your iPhone/iPad with either iCloud or iTunes. Also, your PC must have the latest version of the iTunes app. If not, go to About and then check for Updates or visit iTunes.com.

Step 1: Launch iTunes on your Mac or PC.

Step 2: Insert your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch if it isn't already.

Step 3: Tap on the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in the top left navigation.

Step 4: Tap on the Check for Update button in the first section that contains information about your device, and alternatively you can click Restore instead if you'd like to do a clean wipe with updated software.

Step 5: An update should be recognized, click on Download and Update in the popup menu and agree to the terms or conditions.

Step 6: Unlock your device with your passcode if prompted to continue with the upgrade.

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