Apple has issued iOS 18.3, along with a warning to update your iPhone now. That’s because iOS 18.3 fixes a hefty list of 29 vulnerabilities, one of which has already been used in attacks. Apple doesn’t give much detail about the issues fixed in iOS 18.3, because it wants to give people as much time to update as possible before attackers can get hold of the details. But the already exploited issue patched in iOS 18.3 is a flaw in CoreMedia tracked as CVE-2025-24085, which could see a malicious application able to escalate privileges. Apple is aware of reports indicating this issue may have been actively exploited against versions of iOS before iOS 17.2, noted on its support page.
iOS 18.3 also resolves two significant bugs within the Kernel at the heart of the operating system. The first flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-24107, could allow malicious apps to gain root privileges, and the second bug could permit the execution of code with Kernel privileges. The update also patches multiple flaws within WebKit, the browser engine powering Safari. Specifically, it addresses an issue found within Web Inspector which could lead to command injection attacks, enabling hackers to trick applications to execute system commands.
Apple released iOS 18.3 concurrently with iPadOS 17.7.4, though the latter lacks updates compatible with iOS 17. This potential inconsistency may stem from compatibility issues or the absence of reported vulnerabilities, which makes using iOS 18 critically advantageous for users. By upgrading to iOS 18.3, users can feel more secure, especially since Apple has enabled its AI functionality for iPhone 15s and newer devices.
With iOS 18.3, Apple Intelligence is now automatically activated by default, eliminating the need for users to manually enable it as they did with earlier versions like iOS 18.1. If users wish to disable it, they can do so by accessing their settings. The launch of Apple Intelligence brought new capabilities, including improved notification management. Apple has redesigned the visual presentation of notification summaries, which will now appear italicized, making them easily distinguishable from standard notifications, reducing confusion during use.
Apple's recent tweaks also extend to the Calculator app, which now restores the much-awaited repeat operation function. Previously, users could tap the equals button multiple times to repeat the last operation; this feature will now return, helping streamline calculations. Another notable feature enhanced by iOS 18.3 is Visual Intelligence, which allows users to add events to their Calendar app from posters or flyers easily and provides the capability to recognize various plants and animals directly from the Camera interface.
While iOS 18.3 introduces several new elements, Apple anticipates pushing iOS 18.4 out to users around April 2025. Fans of Siri will look forward to improvements expected to arrive with the upcoming update, which will reportedly include more personal contextual features, such as accessing apps alongside traditional responses.
To download the iOS 18.3 update, users should go to their Settings, select General, and tap on Software Update. The iOS 18.3 update is available for compatible devices including iPhone XS and later, various iPad Pro models, and other iPad generations.
With AIs enhancing the user experience and bolstering security through timely updates, upgrading to iOS 18.3 is more important than ever. Users are encouraged to prioritize this update, ensuring their devices remain secure and equipped with the latest technology. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your iPhone Settings > Software Update and download iOS 18.3 now!