Owners of older iPhones must check their settings - Apple issues urgent update

13 October 2023 , 06:27

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Apple iPhone warning (Image: APPLE • GETTY)

Apple may have now released its shiny new iOS 17 to devices across the planet but the US firm isn't ignoring those who haven't or can't upgrade to this latest and greatest operating system.

An important software update has just been pushed out to older devices and it's vital that everyone checks their smartphones and makes sure they are fully up to date.

iOS 16.7.1 is available now for older phones such as the iPhone 8, iPhone X and anything that launched after them.

If your device is still using iOS 16 then it's important to follow Apple's advice and tap the download button as soon as you can.

So why the urgency?

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Apple has confirmed that the bug in its operating system has been given the dreaded zero-day rating. That worrying tech terminology basically means that hackers are already aware of the flaw and are actively exploiting it.

"A local attacker may be able to elevate their privileges. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited against versions of iOS before iOS 16.6," Apple explained on its security pages.

Along with older iPhones, this update is also available for a swathe of iPad models including iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air 3rd generation and later, iPad 5th generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later.

To make sure your iPhone is updated, simply head to the Settings menu, then tap General, Software Update and check to see if iSO 16.7.1 or iPadOS 16.7.1 is ready to be installed.

These files can be big so make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi before attempting the download.

Dave Snelling