Apple just released a surprise iPhone update: iOS 17.6.1. You can tell from the numbering that this is a minor update and you’d be right if you guessed there were no new features. Here’s what’s in it, and whether you should pop it on your iPhone just yet.
Please note, I’ll be updating this post in a week, on Friday, August 16, so please check back for the final verdict.
Who Is It For And How Do You Get It?
Like all iOS 17 updates, this one is compatible with all iPhones released in 2018 or later. That’s the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Plus, iPhone XR from that year. And then all models of the following series: iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14 and the latest iPhone 15. It also includes the iPhone SE second-and third-generation phones.
What It’s About
It’s all about bug fixes and security issues this time, and Apple has been unusually specific in its details of which security problems it addresses.
Apple iOS 17.6.1 Security
Though there are more than one problems addressed here, Apple has fastened on one in particular. The full notes read, “This update includes important bug fixes and addresses an issue that prevents enabling or disabling Advanced Data Protection.”
Advanced Data Protection is an important security feature that’s part of iCloud and protects data with end-to-end encryption. Apple has said that some users—a small number, it says—were unable to turn it on or off, leading to an inaccuracy.
Initial Reactions
There’s been a lot of positive reactions from users, such as one who said “I’ve had no problems with it. Device runs smoothly and I’ve had great battery life too.” Another said “If you have problems using the advanced data protection feature then 100% update. I had the issue and updating fixed the issue. As for other aspects its very great.” There have been negative comments, but far from overwhelming.
Apple iOS 17.6.1 Initial Verdict: Upgrade
Advanced Data Protection is a key feature so for this alone it’s worth upgrading. I’ll keep an eye on reactions over the coming weeks and update accordingly. Then, I’ll be revisiting this story to come up with final thoughts on Friday, August 16.
