Roger Fingas
Apple on Monday released iOS 11.4.1, HomePod 11.4.1, watchOS 4.3.2 and tvOS 11.4.1, cleaning up most of its major platforms. The iOS update is of particular interest for security conscious users, as it marks the first publicly available firmware to include Apple's new USB Restricted Mode.
All four updates are maintenance releases, smoothing out bugs, performance, and security issues. iOS 11.4.1 can be installed through iTunes, or by using iOS 11's over-the-air Software Update feature. Any associated HomePods should be updated to their new firmware automatically.
Installing watchOS 4.3.2 involves loading the Watch app on a paired iPhone, selecting General, then Software Update. The update process requires that an Apple Watch have at least 50 percent charge, and be sitting on its charger as well as within Bluetooth range.
tvOS 11.4.1 can be installed on the Apple TV or Apple TV 4K. If a set-top isn't set to update automatically, the process can be forced by going into the Settings app, System, and then Software Update.
The only detailed release notes are those for iOS 11.4.1, which indicate that it fixes AirPod tracking in Find My iPhone, and improves the reliability of mail, contact, and note sync for Microsoft Exchange. Anecdotal evidence suggests the update may also solve battery drain some people have experienced.
More importantly, the update incorporates USB Restricted Mode, a security feature that effectively disables hardwired USB data connections to protect user information.
Outside of these, the developer and public beta releases suggested the update would concentrate more on bug fixes and performance improvements, rather than introducing new features. It is likely that Apple would rather save any new additions for iOS 12, tvOS 12, and watchOS 5, which are undergoing beta testing ahead of an expected release this fall.
AppleInsider is looking through the latest operating system releases for any changes, and will report back any findings soon.
Updated with information regarding USB Restricted Mode.
Charles Martin
Christine McKee
Wesley Hilliard
Malcolm Owen
Andrew Orr
William Gallagher
Sponsored Content
17 Comments
I hope they address the Siri bug in HomePod that makes the very useful function of Shopping List virtually UNusable. Half the time it works, the other half she tells you you “haven’t set that up yet.” Supremely frustrating!
How come in 2018 there is STILL no way to search for an app and delete it in that search?! Basic functionality still not in iOS, very frustrating!!!
Please let other people know whether this improves battery life, or makes it worse. I don't see that in the release notes.
I still haven’t updated my HomePod since people complained that the first update changed the bass...asked about it at an Apple store and they had never heard about the problem. AppleInsider sadly didn’t follow up on the issue. I suppose I’ll just eventually take the plunge in order to get new features,,,