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Apple has rolled out its first-ever public Rapid Security Response update to iOS 16.4.1 users. This new feature allows the company to quickly roll out essential security fixes to all iPhone users without having to release a full iOS update.
The update is around 85MB and is currently rolling out to iPhone users. While Apple has not yet released any specific information on what vulnerabilities the update fixes, the company has stated that the Rapid Security Response update is “recommended for all users”.
The Rapid Security Response update was first spotted by Aaron Zollo on Twitter. However, some iPhone users have reported receiving an error message when trying to install it: “Unable to verify security response”.
Apple has stated that Rapid Security Response updates are designed to deliver critical security improvements between software updates, such as those to the Safari web browser or the WebKit framework stack. They can also be used to mitigate security issues more quickly, such as those that may have been reported to exist “in the wild”.
Apple has also rolled out a Rapid Security Response update to Mac users running the latest public version of macOS 13.3.1. The company has emphasized that new Rapid Security Responses are only delivered for the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, starting with iOS 16.4.1, iPadOS 16.4.1, and macOS 13.3.1.
To receive Rapid Security Response updates on your iPhone or iPad, you need to make sure that “Security Responses & System Files” is turned on in your device’s settings. To do this, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
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For Mac users, go to System Settings, choose General in the sidebar, then click Software Update on the right. Click the Show Details button “i” next to Automatic Updates, then make sure that “Install Security Responses and system files” is turned on.
This new feature is expected to significantly enhance Apple’s ability to address security vulnerabilities quickly and effectively, ensuring that iPhone and iPad users are protected from potential security threats. As always, it is recommended that users keep their devices up to date with the latest software updates and security fixes to ensure optimal performance and protection.