Apple has released iOS 17.1.2, a minor update focused on fixing bugs and improving overall system stability. The update comes just over a week after the launch of iOS 17.1, which delivered new features like Apple Music Sing andAdvanced Data Protection.
What’s New in iOS 17.1.2
According to Apple’s release notes, iOS 17.1.2 “provides bug fixes and important security updates.” No specific bugs or security issues are mentioned, which is typical for Apple’s x.x.x updates.
However, analyses of the update by tech sites speculate that it likely addresses issues such as:
- Apps freezing or crashing
- Cellular connectivity problems
- Unresponsive touch screens
- Rapid battery drain
- Overheating iPhones
- Problems with Apple services like iCloud, Siri, and Find My
Essentially, iOS 17.1.2 seems to be an collection of bug fixes and performance improvements rather than major new features. It builds on the changes introduced in iOS 17.1 while squashing lingering issues.
Should You Update to iOS 17.1.2?
Tech experts universally recommend installing iOS 17.1.2 to receive the latest bug fixes and security patches. As MacRumors writes:
iOS updates are typically recommended for all users as they often contain fixes for security vulnerabilities…Given that this is a minor update, installation should take no more than a few minutes.
Upgrading is especially advised for users who have experienced problems on iOS 17.1. The update is available for all devices able to run iOS 17, including:
- iPhone 14 models
- iPhone 13 models
- iPhone 12 models
- iPhone 11 models
- iPhone XS and XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
- iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
Essentially every iPhone released in the last 6 years.
Users can install iOS 17.1.2 by going to Settings > General > Software Update. The update is 284.5 MB on average.
What Comes Next: iOS 17.2
Now that 17.1.2 is out addressing bugs, attention turns to iOS 17.2. This update is already in public beta testing and expected to be released in January 2023.
iOS 17.2 will bring more substantial changes, including:
- Support for the second-generation HomePod
- Upgrades to Freeform collaboration app
- Improvements to Apple Maps Look Around feature
Additionally, rumors indicate iOS 17.2 may allow using an iPhone as a webcam for Macs and pairing Nintendo Joy-Con controllers with iPhone games.
In the meantime, installing iOS 17.1.2 will provide a more stable iOS experience as we await iOS 17.2 and new features early next year.
Developer Reaction to iOS 17.1.2
Developers and tech writers have weighed in on the incremental update:
Wccftech notes iOS 17.1.2 delivers bug fixes for a “major iPhone issue that has been plaguing users,” likely referring to reported cellular and battery drain problems. They advise users to install the update as soon as possible.
iClarified reports iOS 17.1.2 arrived right on schedule, landing the Monday after iOS 17.1 as Apple works quickly to address issues in each dot update before moving to the next major release.
Developer Guilherme Rambo posting on Twitter notes the update apparently fixes a bug with headphones for some users, further confirming iOS 17.1.2 targets miscellaneous bugs reported since the 17.1 launch.
The general consensus is that iOS 17.1.2 brings much needed repairs following a problem-riddled iOS 17 release cycle. The update should smooth over issues until bigger changes come with iOS 17.2.
Looking Ahead to 2024 and iOS 18
Though we still await iOS 17.2 in the near future, rumors are already swirling about iOS 18 coming in 2024.
So far, reports indicate iOS 18 may include:
- A completely redesigned multitasking system for iPads, making them function more like desktops
- New augmented reality capabilities
- The ability to set default apps for music, web browsing, email, and more
Additionally, iOS 18 could potentially expand Dynamic Island to more iPhone models and add always-on lock screens for newer OLED devices.
Of course, iOS 18 likely remains in early development and plans will evolve over time. But 2024 shapes up to be an exciting year for major iOS innovation, with iOS 17.1.2 and 17.2 laying the groundwork with critical fixes and refinements along the way.
Stay tuned for more details on iOS 17.2 and iOS 18 down the road!
To err is human, but AI does it too. Whilst factual data is used in the production of these articles, the content is written entirely by AI. Double check any facts you intend to rely on with another source.
