A new iOS update from Apple has dropped, and with it comes some huge changes for users.
Owners of new iPhones should be quick to install it though as there's a number good reasons to do so, with one being a change that Apple has been forced to make.
iOS 17.4 has been made available on Apple devices this week, and fixes two important security glitches.
Advert
The bugs in question have the zero-day stamp, which means that cyber thieves know about these threats and could be attempting to exploit them at any time - not really worth putting your phone at risk.
These two problems impact the features 'the Kernel' and 'RTKit', with the firm explaining: "Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited".
Once you install the latest software, there should be no more issues or worries about these issues, which is why it is important that you update your phone sharp-ish.
To check if your device needs an update, head to Settings, General, then Software Update and click download to install iOS 17.4.
But there is another addition that has been made that the company is not best pleased with.
The latest iOS will permit third-party developers to have alternative app marketplaces on Apple devices with their own app downloads for EU users.
They no longer need to be part of the iOS App Store ,something developers will be excited by as primarily Apple charged a 'core technology fee' of 50 euro cents per download of an app once it exceeds a million downloads a year.
EU iPhone owners will therefore see different update notes to the rest of the world that details these additions of 'side-loading'.
Even though the approval process may take some time, it is known that an enterprise-focused app marketplace from Mobivention will be available today to users.
Epic has also got an iOS version of the Epic Game Store in the works for release later this year, making it even easier to get Fortnite on your phone.
Apple is not happy with this change as it was done to comply with EU regulations before the deadline of 6 March, as the company voiced how it will negatively impact security.
The company is therefore vetting app marketplaces on iOS and notarising apps to protect users, but it does leave more in the hands of the user to check what it is that you are downloading from these third party marketplaces.
The strict requirements in place for apps on the App Store protected users from downloading any potentially harmful content, according to chief technology officer of Applause, Rob Mason.
He explained that the company 'won’t have the same control over apps available elsewhere, leaving users at risk.'
UK users do not have this feature yet though, but it could change soon.
Other new additions are new emojis, improved Stolen Device Protection and better Battery Health options.
Topics: Apple, Technology, iPhone, World News
Joshua Nair