Apple today launched the security-focused iOS 14.4.2 update for the iPhone and iPod touch, along with watchOS 7.3.3 and updates for older iOS 12 devices. All of the releases include an important fix for a vulnerability that may have been actively exploited in the wild.
iOS 14.4.2 Is Recommended for All Users
Both iOS 14.4.2 and iPadOS 14.4.2 are now available. The updates are compatible with any iPhone from the iPhone 6s onward, all iPad Pro models, the iPad Air 2 and later, the fifth-generation iPad and later, the iPad mini 4 and later, and the seventh-generation iPod touch.
Apple has also launched the new watchOS 7.3.3 for the Apple Watch Series 3 and newer. There's no a matching macOS Big Sur update for the Mac, however.
For older devices that are incompatible with iOS 14---the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 3, and sixth-generation iPod touch---this important security bug fix is available in form of the new iOS 12.5.2 over-the-air update.
These new software updates came nearly three weeks following the release of iOS 14.4.1 which squashed a nasty bug that could allow for arbitrary code execution.
iOS 14.42. Fixes a Known Security Exploit
The company wrote in release notes that iOS 14.4.2 "provides important security updates and is recommended for all users." Further information is provided in a support document on Apple's website which lists the security content of all Apple software updates.
According to the document, the updates have squashed a bug in the WebKit layout engine used by the Safari browser and a bunch of operating system features. This bug could result in universal cross-site scripting when processing maliciously crafted web content. "Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited," reads the document.
The company has addressed the described issue through improved management of object lifetimes. Apple credits the discovery of the vulnerability to Clement Lecigne of Google Threat Analysis Group and Billy Leonard of Google Threat Analysis Group.
How to Install iOS 14.4.2 and watchOS 7.3.3
To update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch wirelessly, go to Settings > General > Software Update, then follow the onscreen instructions to finish installing the latest software. If your battery charge is below 50 percent, be sure to connect the device to power.
To install the latest available watchOS software, launch the companion Watch app on your paired iPhone, then navigate to My Watch > General → Software Update.
Your watch must be at least 50 percent charged. Also, your paired iPhone must be connected to Wi-Fi and both devices must have Bluetooth turned on. Be sure to keep your iPhone next to your Apple Watch during the update process so they're in Bluetooth range.
"Leave your Apple Watch on its charger while the update completes," Apple advises.