iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1 released with HomeKit denial of service bug fix

Apple has released iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1 for all compatible iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models. The minor update fixes a couple of bugs related to Messages and CarPlay, as well as a security fix for a HomeKit bug that could render iOS devices unusable.

iOS 15.2.1

iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1 features

iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1 are minor updates and simply contain two bug fixes for Messages and CarPlay: 

  • Messages may not load photos sent using an iCloud Link
  • Third-party CarPlay apps may not respond to input

Here are the details for the HomeKit denial of service issue, as posted on the Apple support website, which has also been fixed in this update.

HomeKit

Available for: iPhone 6s and later, iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air 2 and later, iPad 5th generation and later, iPad mini 4 and later, and iPod touch (7th generation)

Impact: Processing a maliciously crafted HomeKit accessory name may cause a denial of service

Description: A resource exhaustion issue was addressed with improved input validation.

CVE-2022-22588: Trevor Spiniolas (@TrevorSpiniolas)

iOS 15.2 and iPadOS 15.2 were previously released mid-December 2021 with Apple Music Voice Plan, App Privacy Report, Communication Safety in Messages, Digital Legacy for Apple ID, Hide My Email for iCloud+, macro photo control for iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, enhancements for the TV app on iPad, redesigned notification summary on the lock screen, and removal of iPhone 13 third-party screen replacement barriers.

iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1 compatible devices

  • iPhone 6s and later
  • iPad Pro (all models)
  • iPad Air 2 and later
  • iPad 5th generation and later
  • iPad mini 4 and later
  • iPod touch (7th generation)
  • iPad Pro (all models)
  • iPad Air 2 and later
  • iPad 5th generation and later
  • iPad mini 4 and later

Install iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1

Go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Wait for iOS 15.2.1/iPadOS 15.2.1 to show up and tap on ‘Download and Install’. Make sure that your device has at least 50% battery charge, and is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.

You can also download iOS 15.2.1 and iPadOS 15.2.1 firmware files to manually update or restore your device by connecting it to a Mac or Windows PC and using Finder or iTunes. This is the best method if you are looking to get a clean install experience on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

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