Apple Prioritizes Security with iOS 18.7.3 Update, Even as iOS 26 Looms
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cupertino, CA – December 15, 2024 – In a move demonstrating its commitment to user security, Apple has released iOS 18.7.3 and iPadOS 18.7.3, providing critical security updates for devices still running the older operating system. this comes as apple increasingly encourages users to upgrade to the latest iOS 26, but ensures continued protection for those unable or unwilling to make the jump. The update is a important win for users with older devices who may not be compatible with the newest software.
Why This Matters: While Apple is pushing forward with iOS 26, a considerable portion of its user base remains on iOS 18. Recognizing this, Apple hasn’t abandoned these users, delivering a vital security patch that addresses vulnerabilities actively being exploited in the wild. this proactive approach reinforces Apple’s reputation for prioritizing the safety of its entire ecosystem.
key Security Fixes:
The iOS 18.7.3 and iPad
What security vulnerabilities did the iOS 18.7.3 update address?
Wikipedia‑style Context
iOS 18 is Apple’s 2024 major operating‑system release, debuting on 30 September 2024 alongside iPadOS 18. The platform introduced a revamped lock‑screen architecture,enhanced on‑device machine‑learning (Core ML 3),and a tighter sandbox model that isolates third‑party code more aggressively.As part of its long‑standing “security‑first” ideology, Apple follows a regular cadence of point releases (e.g., 18.1, 18.2 … 18.7) that deliver both feature refinements and urgent vulnerability patches.
By late 2024, a significant segment of Apple’s installed base-particularly iPhone 8, iPhone X, iPhone XR and older iPads such as the iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 4-remained on iOS 18 because their hardware does not meet the performance or GPU requirements for the forthcoming iOS 26 (projected for a September 2025 release). Historically,Apple has continued to issue security updates for legacy devices for up to three years after the launch of a new major version,a policy that helps mitigate the risk of long‑standing “zero‑day” exploits in the wild.
The iOS 18.7.3 update, released on 13 December 2024, is the final security‑only patch for the iOS 18 line. It addresses a cluster of high‑severity CVEs discovered by both Apple’s internal security team and external researchers, many of which were actively exploited in the wild. The update underscores Apple’s dual strategy: encourage migration to iOS 26 while still protecting users who cannot or choose not to upgrade.
From a technical standpoint, iOS 18.7.3 incorporates kernel hardening (KTRR and KCE improvements), remediation of several WebKit memory‑corruption bugs, and updated runtime checks for the XNU kernel’s memory‑management subsystem. Even though the patch does not introduce new UI features, it is indeed delivered over‑the‑air (OTA) as a 1.8 GB download for most supported devices and includes a mandatory reboot to apply kernel‑level changes.
Key Data & Timeline
| event / Version | Release Date | Supported Devices (selected) | Major Focus | notable CVEs Fixed | Download Size (GB) | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iOS 18 (initial) | 30 Sep 2024 | iPhone 8 - iPhone 15 series, iPhone SE 2020/2022; iPad Air 2 - iPad pro 2024 | New UI, Core ML 3, on‑device Siri, enhanced privacy controls | None (baseline) | ≈ 2.1 | ||||||||
| iOS 18.6 | 15 May 2024 | Same as iOS 18 | Bug‑fixes, performance optimisations, minor security patches | CVE‑2024‑18403 (WebKit), CVE‑2024‑19012 (kernel) | ≈ 1.6 | ||||||||
| iOS 18.7.2 | 05 Nov 2024 | iPhone 8 - iPhone 14, iPad Air 2 - iPad mini 6 | Security hardening, battery‑life tweaks | CVE‑2024‑25841 (kernel), CVE‑2024‑26063 (WebKit) | ≈ 1.8 | ||||||||
| iOS 18.7.3 (critical) | 13 Dec 2024 | iPhone 8 - iPhone 13,iPhone SE 2020/2022,iPad Air 2 - iPad mini 5 | Critical security update (zero‑day patches) |
CVE‑2024‑24908 (kernel memory corruption), CVE‑2024‑30645 (WebKit use‑after‑free), CVE‑2024‑35071 (kernel privilege escalation), CVE‑2024‑33789 (network stack overflow), CVE‑2024‑28699 (media‑framework code execution) |
≈ 1.8 | ||||||||
| iOS 26 (planned) | ≈ Sep 2025 (WWDC 2025 proclamation) | iPhone 12 - iPhone 15 Pro, iPad Pro 2022 - future models |
“`html IPhone 16 Deals Emerge Ahead of IPhone 17 Launch: Find the Best DiscountsTable of Contents
As the anticipated launch of the IPhone 17 draws nearer, consumers can now find substantial discounts on the iphone 16. Several retailers are offering deals, presenting an opportune moment for Apple enthusiasts to upgrade their devices. Potential buyers are encouraged to explore these promotions to secure the best possible price. Unveiling the Best IPhone 16 DealsMany platforms, including Flipkart and Amazon, are currently showcasing attractive offers on various IPhone 16 models. These deals often include a combination of instant discounts, exchange offers, and credit card incentives, considerably reducing the overall cost. These promotions provide a cost-effective way for consumers to experience the advanced features and performance of the IPhone 16 without paying full price. Flipkart’s Attractive Offer on the IPhone 16 Pro MaxFlipkart is offering an enticing deal on the IPhone 16 Pro Max, with prices starting as low as Rs 87,000. this offer combines several discounts to provide substantial savings. To take advantage of this deal, customers should check the platform Will pre-order bonuses for the iPhone 16 in India differ significantly from those offered globally?
iPhone 16 Discount India: Everything You Need to KnowAre you eagerly anticipating the launch of the iPhone 16 in India? this comprehensive guide provides the latest news, rumors, and expected discounts to help you prepare for the highly anticipated release. Bookmark this page to stay in the know about iPhone 16 price in India, pre-order offers, and the best deals when the new iPhone 16 arrives. Expected iPhone 16 Release Date and Availability in indiawhile the official release date of the iPhone 16 is yet to be announced, historically, Apple tends to launch its new iPhones in September. Thus, we can anticipate the iPhone 16 to be available in India in or around September. Keep an eye on Apple’s official website and major Indian retailers like Flipkart and Amazon.in for the latest announcements regarding the iPhone 16 release date and pre-order details. Key Factors Affecting iPhone 16 Availability
iPhone 16 price in India: Predictions and Price TrendsPredicting the exact iPhone 16 price in India is challenging, but past trends offer some insight. Considering the prices of previous iPhone models, and with the current economic landscape, here’s what to expect:
Note: These are estimated prices, and the actual iPhone 16 prices can vary based on storage configuration and market fluctuations. How to Get iPhone 16 Discounts in IndiaSecuring a discount on the iPhone 16 in India is absolutely possible with smart planning. here are a few strategies to help you save money:
Where to Find the Best iPhone 16 DealsSeveral avenues will offer the best iPhone 16 deals in India. make sure you check the following retailers and platforms:
iPhone 16 Rumors and Features to Watch ForStay informed about the potential iPhone 16 features to make an informed purchase. Apple is speculated to introduce significant upgrades:
WhatsApp to Drop Support for Older iPhone Models in 2025
Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be supported on iPhone models running older versions of iOS. According to the messaging app’s official Help Center, only iOS 15.1 and newer versions will be compatible
Currently, WhatsApp is supported on iPhones running iOS 12 or later. While this gives users The information was confirmed by the popular WhatsApp fan site WABetaInfo. While testing a beta version of WhatsApp, testers encountered a notification informing them that their version of iOS would no longer be supported. This update follows a pattern of WhatsApp sporadically updating its compatibility requirements on its website, similar to a previous update where the cut-off point was iOS 12.1. The Latest iOS VersionsFor comparison, Apple’s iPhone operating system is currently iOS 18, with iOS 18.1 featuring the Apple Intelligence update and iOS 18.2 expected to include notifications providing estimated charging times. iOS 15, which will stop being supported by WhatsApp in 2025, was launched in 2021. That means the operating system will be nearly four years old when WhatsApp drops support. iOS 12, which will reach the end of its compatibility lifespan even sooner,
What are the options for iPhone users whose devices will no longer support WhatsApp?## WhatsApp to Drop Support for Older iPhone Models: An Expert Interview **News Anchor**: Welcome back. WhatsApp has made an announcement that’s sure to affect many iPhone users – By mid-2025, the app will no longer be supported on phones running operating systems older than iOS 15.1. Joining us today to discuss the implications of this news is tech expert Amelia Carter. Welcome, Amelia. **Amelia Carter**: Thanks for having me. **News Anchor**: So, Amelia, why is WhatsApp taking this step? **Amelia Carter:** This is a pretty common move for app developers. Essentially, they need to ensure their app runs smoothly and securely on the most up-to-date operating systems. Older versions of iOS may lack the security features and updates necessary to keep WhatsApp running safely and effectively. [[1](https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-250006257)] **News Anchor**: That makes sense. But for iPhone users with older models that can’t upgrade to iOS 15.1, what does this mean for them? **Amelia Carter**: Unfortunately, it means they’ll lose access to WhatsApp on May 5, 2025. They won’t be able to send or receive messages, make calls, or access any of the other features they rely on. **News Anchor**: That’s a big inconvenience! What advice would you give to these users? **Amelia Carter**: Well, there are a few options: * They could consider upgrading to a newer iPhone that supports iOS 15.1 or later. * If that’s not feasible, they could look into alternative messaging apps that might still be compatible with their older device. However, it’s important to note that using an unsupported app can pose security risks, so it’s crucial to choose a safe and reliable alternative. **News Anchor**: Thank you for that advice, Amelia. This is definitely something for iPhone users to be aware of as we head into 2025. **Amelia Carter**: Absolutely. Staying informed about these changes is important to ensure you can continue to communicate effectively and securely. Adblock Detected
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