Apple just pushed dozens of critical security updates, going all the way back to 2015 iPhones – Macworld

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Apple always has at least a few security updates in its iOS point releases. While the number of security fixes in each release varies, it used to be uncommon to see more than 20 vulnerabilities addressed.
The last few iOS releases have seen a surge in security updates, and the new iOS 26.5 update is no exception. In fact, with a whopping 52 listed security vulnerabilities fixed (including a single WebKit patch that addresses nine CVE entries) it stands out even among the more recent iOS updates.
While many of the vulnerabilities sound like they could be quite serious, Apple has not noted that any of them have been deployed and used in the wild yet. Other OS versions, from macOS to tvOS and watchOS, feature dozens of fixes in the 26.5 release as well.
If you’re not yet on iOS 26, there are still some updates for you that address many of the same serious vulnerabilities. Those still on iOS/iPadOS 18 will find an 18.7.9 update waiting for them. If you have an older device and are on iOS or iPadOS 16, you’ll see version 16.7.16. There’s even a 15.8.8 update for devices going all the way back to the iPhone 6s; it’s eleven years old and still getting critical security updates.
You can read more about the specific vulnerabilities addressed in these updates on the Apple Security Releases page. Among the notable security updates:
iOS 26.5 is more than just security fixes; it adds a handful of new features, such as RCS encryption (beta) and suggested places in Maps. We have another article explaining all the changes in iOS 26.5.
Jason has written about technology for more than 25 years – first in the gaming press, then focusing on enthusiast PCs and general technology. He enjoys learning how complicated technology works and explaining it in a way anyone can understand.
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