Apple releases iOS 6.1.2 to fix Exchange calendar bug that could drain battery

The new version of iOS — available via over-the-air update and from Apple's site— comes less than a week after Apple initially promised a fix for the Exchange syncing bug.

Apple's description of the 12.8MB 6.1.2 update is as follows:

Fixes an Exchange calendar bug that could result in increased network activity and reduced battery life

In addition to the Exchange fix, the update contains a fix for a recently revealed vulnerability. Last week, reports emerged that a security hole in iOS 6.1 could allow anyone to bypass a user's passcode screen and access contacts. Apple soon promised a software update to address the vulnerability.

Macstories carried word on Tuesday that the update does indeed patch the passcode hole. Instead of allowing access to contacts, the bypass process now reportedly results only in a blank screen and keypad.

Apple began releasing betas for iOS 6.1.1 earlier in February, focusing on improving its Maps app. Shortly after the 6.1.1 beta was released, 3G and battery issues began appearing in connection to version 6.1. Last week, Microsoft eventually recommended blocking iOS 6.1 users in order to head off a problem involving interoperation with Microsoft Exchange Server 2010.