Apple Rolls Out iOS/iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5 with Security Updates

Today Apple has released a suite of critical software updates — iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5, and macOS Sequoia 15.5 — addressing over 70 security vulnerabilities across its ecosystem. Updates also included enhancements upgraded including further Apple Intelligence AI implementations device wide, Photos and Mails update, and more

These updates patch critical security flaws that could be exploited in real-world cyber attacks.

Some of the security fixes include:

• Privacy and Sensitive Data Protection — Both updates tackle flaws that could have exposed personal data. On iOS and iPadOS, Apple patched issues in Call History, Notes, and iCloud Document Sharing. Meanwhile, macOS Sequoia 15.5 closed vulnerabilities in Finder, TCC (Transparency, Consent, and Control), Notification Center, and Apple Intelligence Reports — areas critical to app permissions and user data boundaries.
• Media File Vulnerabilities — CoreMedia, AppleJPEG, CoreAudio, and related components were patched on both platforms. These fixes prevent malicious media files from crashing apps or corrupting memory, which could otherwise be exploited to compromise device stability or leak data.
• System Stability and Kernel-Level Fixes — Several kernel bugs were fixed in both iOS and macOS including memory corruption, use-after-free, and double-free issues which, if left unaddressed, could lead to unexpected system crashes or potential code execution by attackers.
• WebKit Overhaul — Safari’s WebKit engine received an extensive round of fixes on all platforms. The updates mitigate risks such as memory corruption, type confusion, and cross-origin data leakage to improve the security of everyday web browsing.
• App and Network Isolation Enhancements — macOS updates included sandbox and quarantine improvements, addressing potential privilege escalation and sandbox escape scenarios. On iOS, network related fixes including to NetworkExtension framework which powers VPNs and advanced network features received a fix preventing attackers in privileged network positions from bypassing restrictions or intercepting traffic.
• FaceTime, Bluetooth, and Interface Issues — Issues where muting on FaceTime didn’t silence audio or where deleted call records reappeared in search were resolved. Bluetooth-related vulnerabilities that could allow unauthorized data access were also patched.

Apple also mentioned many security researchers helping in originally disclosing some of these vulnerabilities. including experts from Google Project Zero, Trend Micro’s Zero Day Initiative, and a range of independent analysts.

Regular security updates are aimed to safeguard user privacy, enhance system integrity, and mitigate real-world security threats on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If you own an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, regularly updating to the latest available OS version is essential for keeping your data secure and your device stable.

Check For/Enable Auto Updates

Pro Tip: If you haven’t already, ensure auto updates enabled and update if needed.

On iPhone or iPads, head to the “Settings” app >> General >> Software Update.

On Mac based PCs, go to System Settings (from the Apple icon) >> General >> Software Update (macOS) to install the updates today.