Apple is about to release iOS 17.7, an important iPhone update containing security patches and bug fixes. The iOS 17.7 update will be released alongside iOS 18 on Sept. 16, according to a report on Apple-focused site 9to5Mac.
So, why is Apple releasing two updates on Monday and what will be the difference between them?
Here’s what you need to know.
iOS 17.7 And Security
When Apple releases iOS 18, the iPhone maker will also include a hefty list of security updates. That leaves many iPhone users with a choice to make – do you update to iOS 18 with all the new features, protecting yourself from security flaws, but accept you may suffer iPhone bugs? Or do you wait to upgrade to iOS 18 and risk your security?
Thankfully, Apple is well-aware of reluctant upgraders and for this reason, it will continue to update iOS 17 for at least a few months after issuing iOS 18. Apple did the same last year with iOS 16, which it updated with a long list of fixes for around six months after iOS 17 arrived.
After that, the iPhone maker will continue to update iOS 17 with security fixes, but only for devices that aren’t compatible with iOS 18. In case you need a reminder, iOS 18 can run on devices including the iPhone XS and newer.
While waiting to upgrade is an attractive option and a reason to decide to update to iOS 17.7 rather than iOS 18, it’s also important to note that iOS 18 should be the more secure operating system overall. It includes new features such as the built-in password app — and Apple will provide it with a longer and more thorough list of security updates going forward.
iOS 17.7 – What To Do Next
When iOS 17.7 arrives, you should apply it straight away, if you care about security. It’s a step worth taking: Attackers can take advantage of holes in the iOS operating system to plant malware and in some cases, even take over your iPhone.
You can set your iPhone to update automatically, but Apple rolls out upgrades in waves, so it can sometimes take a week or more to reach you.
Apple will include a list of security fixes with iOS 17.7 and iOS 18, which I’ll cover in more detail next week. When the updates do arrive, you’ll be able to see an option to upgrade to either of them in your iPhone Settings > General > Software Update.
