Apple promised faster response times to security patches with iOS 16 and macOS Ventura, and now it’s making that claim. The company owns released Its first Rapid Security Response updates for devices running iOS 16.4.1, iPadOS 16.4.1, and macOS 13.3.1. They’re available through Software Update as usual, but they’re small downloads that don’t take a lot of time to install. Mac rumors He says the fix is rolled out over 48 hours, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait a little while.
There have been hurdles thus far. Engadget and others are getting an error warning that iOS can’t check for update because the device is “no longer online”. We’ve asked Apple for comment, but you may have to be patient with this program. Until now, the upgrades were only available to beta testers.
A quick security response allows Apple to fix vulnerabilities sooner than they can through traditional software updates. While you can disable them, they may be ideal for zero-day fixes that attackers can use immediately. This, in turn, can prevent malware from spreading rapidly through the community – particularly among users who have automatic updates enabled.
The concept of emergency security updates is of course not new. Apple, Microsoft, and others have released patches out of schedule. This only simplifies the process, and (along with recent additions like Security Check) provides some reassurance. You are unlikely to spend days worrying that your data might be ready.
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