Apple has released iOS 15.3 and iPadOS 15.3 for compatible iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models. The new update features a fix for a security flaw that could allow malicious applications access to users’ private Apple ID information or recent in-app search terms. The update also changes some text in settings to clarify how iCloud Private Relay works.
iOS 15.3 and iPadOS 15.3
The update features a number of security patches that impact CoreGraphics, Face ID, Privacy, Sandbox, Siri, WebKit, and Wi-Fi. The Privacy patch had gained popularity as it fixed an issue that could allow malicious apps access to a user’s Apple ID information.
Apple’s release notes do not mention any other changes apart from bug fixes and security updates.
The previous major update was iOS 15.2 and shipped 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.
Compatible iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models
Following iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models are compatible with iOS 15.3 and iPadOS 15.3:
- 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
Upgrade to iOS 15.3 and iPadOS 15.3
To install the new software updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Wait for the new iOS or iPadOS updates to appear and tap on ‘Download and Install’. The download process may take some time depending on your device model and Wi-Fi connection speed. Ensure that your device has at least 50% battery charge, and is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
Alternatively, you can also download iOS 15.3 and iPadOS 15.3 IPSW firmware files to manually update your device, or restore it by connecting it to a Mac or Windows PC and using Finder or iTunes. This is particularly useful if you want to perform a clean upgrade by wiping all the data on your device.
