Apple is poised to issue a new update, iOS 17.4.1, fixing several bugs in its iPhone software. News of the iOS 17.4.1 update was first spotted by Apple-focused site MacRumors, which saw evidence that the upgrade was being internally tested via its website logs.
The iOS 17.4.1 upgrade comes just one week after the release of iOS 17.4—Apple’s most significant iPhone update to date in the EU, because it opens up its devices to sideloading for the first time ever.
But since iOS 17.4 launched, some iPhone users have been complaining about significant battery drain. While it’s normal for battery to drain a bit faster following a big iPhone upgrade, for many, the issue remains. It’s highly likely iOS 17.4.1 could offer a fix for this issue, as well as addressing other bugs.
Another reason the iOS 17.4.1 update is arriving so soon could simply be the significance of the iOS 17.4 upgrade. The changes Apple needed to make to enable sideloading and alternative app stores aren’t to be sniffed at—plus the iPhone maker had to implement them by the deadline to comply with the EU Digital Markets Act. It’s very possible that iOS 17.4.1 fixes any bugs that might have occurred in the process.
Finally, iOS 17.4.1 could be an emergency security upgrade to patch flaws already being used in attacks. Apple used to issue these updates as Rapid Security responses, but we haven’t seen one of these for a while after a botched version last year. While iOS 17.4 did patch two issues being used in attacks with a total list of 40 flaws, it’s possible security researchers have reported other serious bugs that need addressing quickly.
If I was going to bet on it, I’d say iOS 17.4.1 fixes the battery drain issue on iPhones. I have been suffering with issues on my iPhone 14, and several others have reported the same.
All will be revealed soon—it’s likely Apple will issue iOS 17.4.1 this week or early next. Go to your Settings > General > Software Update and keep checking for iOS 17.4.1’s release.
Alex Mitchell is your go-to expert for all things mobile. With a passion for the latest smartphones, apps, and mobile innovations, Alex provides in-depth reviews, insightful analyses, and breaking news about the ever-evolving world of mobile technology. Stay connected with Alex to navigate the fast-paced realm of mobile devices.
