iOS 14.4 and iPadOS 14.4 fix security vulnerabilities

Apple’s latest software updates are here with the official release of iOS 14.4 and iPadOS 14.4. Both updates carry significant kernel and WebKit vulnerability fixes so it’s best to install them on your devices as soon as possible.

According to a security document shared by Apple, an unnamed malicious app could gain elevated privileges and serve as a gateway for exploits. The WebKit issues allowed remote attackers to execute harmful code on your device. Apple is doing an ongoing investigation of the matter and assures the exploits were patched with the new updates.

The new iOS version is available on iPhone 6s and up as well as iPod touch (7 gen) while iPadOS will be compatible with iPad Air 2 / iPad mini 4 and up. Other new additions include the ability to scan smaller QR codes and the option to classify Bluetooth devices in Settings which helps collect Headphone Audio Level measurements on third party devices.

From now on Apple will be able to tell if your iPhone 12 series phone is using genuine camera components and will send notifications if it finds any non-genuine or recycled cameras from other iPhone 12s in your device.

HomePod mini owners also get Ultra wideband (UWB) support on iPhone 11 and 12 models which come with Apple’s U1 chip. This will speed up the handoff feature between HomePod mini and iPhone allowing for faster music transfers and haptic feedback.

iOS 14.4 update changelog:

• Smaller QR codes can be recognized by Camera
• Option to classify Bluetooth device type in Settings for correct identification of headphones for audio notifications.
• Notifications for when the camera on your iPhone is unable to be verified as a new, genuine Apple camera in iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max.
This release also fixes the following issues:
• Image artifacts could appear in HDR photos taken with iPhone 12 Pro.
• Fitness widget may not display updated Activity data.
• Typing may be delayed and word suggestions may not appear in the keyboard.
• The keyboard may not come up in the correct language in Messages.
• Audio stories from the News app in CarPlay may not resume after being paused for spoken directions or Siri.
• Enabling Switch Control in Accessibility may prevent phone calls from being answered from the Lock Screen.

iPadOS 14.4 changelog:

• Smaller QR codes can be recognized by Camera.
• Option to classify Bluetooth device type in Settings for correct identification of headphones for audio notifications.
This release also fixes the following issues:
• Typing may be delayed and word suggestions may not appear in the keyboard.
• The keyboard may not come up in the correct language in Messages.

In semi-related news, Apple announced its App Tracking Transparency privacy measure will come with the next betas of iOS 14, iPadOS 14, and tvOS 14 in early Spring.

This feature will push a notification to users every time an app wants to track their location with two options: “Allow Tracking” and “Ask App not to Track”. You can read more about Apple’s App Tracking Transparency here.

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