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Apple Releases iOS 18.5 With Over 30 Security Fixes – Critical Update for iPhone Users
Updated May 14 – Apple has rolled out iOS 18.5, urging users to upgrade immediately due to a long list of critical security patches. With over 30 vulnerabilities addressed, including major issues in Safari (WebKit), iCloud, Core Bluetooth, and the iOS kernel, this update is focused entirely on protecting users before attackers can exploit these flaws.
Apple has kept the technical details limited to give users time to update, but confirmed that kernel bugs could allow remote attackers to crash systems or apps. Meanwhile, a WebKit bug (CVE-2025-24213) reported by Google’s security team could lead to memory corruption, and Core Bluetooth issues could expose sensitive data.
One severe issue involved iCloud sharing, where hackers could enable folder sharing without authentication. Apple has fixed this in iOS 18.5, along with a libexpat code execution vulnerability.
watchOS 11.5 Fixes Live Exploit
Alongside iOS 18.5, Apple released watchOS 11.5, fixing a critical flaw in CoreAudio (CVE-2025-31200). This bug, actively exploited in sophisticated attacks on targeted individuals, could allow code execution through malicious audio files. The U.S. CISA has already issued a warning, advising high-risk groups to update by May 8.
Other Device Updates
Apple also released:
- iPadOS 17.7.7 for older iPads
- macOS Sequoia 15.5, macOS Sonoma 14.7.6, and macOS Ventura
- tvOS 18.5 and Safari 18.5
- visionOS 2.5 for Vision Pro devices
Notably, iOS 17.7.7 is missing, signaling Apple is ending security updates for iPhones still on iOS 17.
Privacy & Enterprise Readiness
Security experts emphasize the privacy enhancements in iOS 18.5. One key fix ensures that the mute button now effectively disables the microphone during FaceTime calls. Another fix patches iCloud data sharing bugs that could allow unauthorized access.
Michael Covington, VP at Jamf, said, “This update is a chance to get ahead of attackers. None of these vulnerabilities have been exploited yet — now is the perfect time to patch.”
What’s New Beyond Security
While focused on security, iOS 18.5 also includes:
- AI privacy enhancements
- Updates to the Mail app
- A new Pride Harmony wallpaper
Compatible Devices
iOS 18.5 is available for:
- iPhone XS and newer
- iPads from the 7th generation and later
- iPad Air 3rd gen and later
- iPad Pro (11” 1st gen & later, 12.9” 3rd gen & later)
- iPad mini 5th gen and newer
🔧 How to Update:
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install iOS 18.5 now to stay secure.
