Apple launches iOS 16.4 (a) with Rapid Security Response update

Regarding vulnerabilities in iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Apple hopes to quickly address them instead of waiting for a new version to fix them. For example, with the iMessage zero-click vulnerability, Apple waited a long time to complete the repair. The reason for this is that new versions not only contain fixes for vulnerabilities, but also typically include feature updates, error fixes, and the resolution of one or more security vulnerabilities. The more content there is, the longer the testing time, and the release time is naturally delayed.

Apple’s solution to this problem is hot patching, similar to Windows 10/11’s out-of-band updates. Microsoft uses out-of-band updates to quickly resolve certain functional or security issues with the system before or after its monthly patch Tuesday.

Image: 9to5mac

Apple’s out-of-band updates are called Rapid Security Response updates, and unlike Microsoft’s updates, they only fix security vulnerabilities. Apple has now released the first Rapid Security Response update for iOS 16.4 (a) to testers, which is likely only for testing purposes. However, subsequent iOS, iPadOS, and macOS versions will also receive Rapid Security Response updates, allowing Apple to quickly address certain important security vulnerabilities and enhance system security outside of its regular release schedule.

Currently, iOS 16.4 is still being tested, and iOS 16.5 has also been released to developers. It is expected that the official version of iOS 16.4 will be released soon, and iOS 16.5 will be the last version of the iOS 16 series, with testing for iOS 17 starting in June.

Via: 9to5mac