iOS 18.3.1: What’s New in Apple’s Latest Update?
Apple has officially released iOS 18.3.1 to the general public, just a few weeks after the launch of iOS 18.3. This update arrives alongside several other software updates, including iPadOS 18.3.1, watchOS 11.3.1, macOS Sequoia 15.3.1, and visionOS 2.3.1. For older devices, Apple also released iPadOS 17.75 and macOS 14.7.99 and 13.7.4.
As expected, iOS 18.3.1 is a minor update, classified as a “double point” update, meaning it primarily focuses on bug fixes and security improvements rather than introducing new features. Below, we break down what’s included in this release and whether you should update your device.
Update Size and Build Number
The iOS 18.3.1 update comes in at approximately 637.5 MB on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. However, the size may vary depending on your device and the version you’re updating from. The build number for this update is 22D72, and for iPhone 16 series users, the modem firmware has been updated to 1.4.3.
Bug Fixes and Security Patches
As a double-point update, iOS 18.3.1 does not bring any major visual changes but does include crucial security patches. According to Apple, this update provides “important bug fixes and security updates,” which are recommended for all users.
One of the most significant security fixes in this update addresses an accessibility vulnerability. Apple has patched a flaw where a physical attack could disable USB restricted mode on a locked device. More alarmingly, Apple acknowledged that this issue may have been exploited in highly sophisticated attacks targeting specific individuals. The fix involves improved state management to address this security flaw. The vulnerability was reported by Citizen Lab, a cybersecurity research group, making it a noteworthy patch for privacy-conscious users.
Notable Fixes and Remaining Bugs
While Apple does not list every single bug fix in its release notes, several known issues from iOS 18.3 could be resolved in this update:
- Camera Freezing Issue – Some users previously reported that their iPhone’s camera would freeze, preventing them from taking pictures. If this issue has affected you, iOS 18.3.1 may provide a fix.
- Keyboard Sticker Bugs – Some users experienced missing stickers when accessing them via the emoji keyboard. While it remains unclear if iOS 18.3.1 fully resolves this, it is worth checking after updating.
- Apple Intelligence Auto-Enable – A notable issue in iOS 18.3.1 is that some users have reported their Apple Intelligence settings being automatically re-enabled after updating, even if they had previously disabled it. If you prefer Apple Intelligence to remain off, be sure to check your settings after installing the update.
One ongoing issue that has not been fixed in this update is related to news summarizations in notifications. This feature remains “temporarily unavailable,” and Apple has yet to indicate when it will return.
Performance and Battery Life
For performance enthusiasts, iOS 18.3.1 does not introduce significant changes in raw performance. A Geekbench 6 test on an iPhone 16 Pro Max showed a single-core score of 3515 and a multi-core score of 8708, which is slightly lower than the results from iOS 18.3, though differences are minor.
Battery life remains consistent with iOS 18.3, which was reported to offer better endurance than iOS 18.2 and 18.2.1. If your battery life has been stable or improved with iOS 18.3, expect similar results with 18.3.1.
Should You Update to iOS 18.3.1?
If you are already on iOS 18.3, updating to iOS 18.3.1 is highly recommended, as it includes important security patches and bug fixes without any known drawbacks. The update process is quick, and since it doesn’t introduce major changes, it won’t affect your device’s usability or storage significantly.
Moreover, with no major updates expected until iOS 18.4 in April, this could be the last update for several weeks unless Apple discovers another critical security flaw requiring an emergency fix.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Apple’s next big update is iOS 18.4, expected to arrive in April. This update is set to bring notable improvements, particularly for Apple Intelligence and an upgraded Siri experience. If you’re part of the developer or public beta program, you might see the first beta of iOS 18.4 within the next week.
For now, iOS 18.3.1 ensures your device stays secure and stable, making it a worthwhile update for all users. Be sure to check your Apple Intelligence settings after updating and let us know if you notice any additional improvements or unresolved issues!
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Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.
