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Apple has released a new software update for iPhones. It is rolling out iOS 17.3.1 as a minor update over iOS 17.3 pushed a couple of weeks ago. The latest release only brings bug fixes with no additional features or functional improvements. The same update is also rolling out to iPads (iPadOS 17.3.1).
iPhones get the iOS 17.3.1 update with bug fixes
According to Apple, the iOS 17.3.1 update for iPhones (iPhone XS and later) brings a fix for a text-related bug. Some users were experiencing issues where the typed text may unexpectedly duplicate or overlap. Once you install the latest update, you should no longer face this issue while typing.
The same update is also available for all recent iPads. As reported by Apple Insider, the updated build number for iOS and iPadOS is 21D61. The previous build number (for iOS 17.3/iPadOS 17.3) was 21D50. None of the iPhones or iPads are getting additional goodies, which is expected with these kinds of sub-point updates. The previous update brought Stolen Device Protection and collaborative playlists for Apple Music.
If you are using an eligible iPhone or iPad, you will sone get the latest update over the air (OTA). You will be notified about it. You can also manually check for updates from the Settings app on your Apple device. Open the Settings app, select General, and tap on Software Update. If an OTA update shows up, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. If not, wait some time and check again.
Macbooks and Apple Watches are also getting a minor update
Apple usually rolls out new updates for all of its devices around the same time and it is no different this time around. Along with iPhones and iPads, a minor new update is also rolling out to Macbooks and Apple Watches. The computer lineup is picking up macOS Sonoma 14.3.1 with the same text-related bug fix. The process for manually checking for updates on Macbooks is the same as Apple’s smartphones and tablets.
Finally, the Apple Watch Series 4 and later are picking up watchOS 10.3.1 with unspecified bug fixes and system improvements. As you might expect, there are no additional changes to talk about. To update your Apple Watch, open the Apple Watch app on your connected iPhone, go to the My Watch tab, select General, and tap on Software Update. You can also check for updates directly from the watch. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.