Apple Releases iOS 12.4.2 Update for Older iPhones and iPads

Though iOS 13 has been available for a week now, Apple today released an iOS 12.4.2 update designed for those who are still running versions of iOS 12 on devices that aren't able to be updated to iOS 13.

Apple is making iOS 12.4.2 available for the original iPad Air, the iPad mini 2, the ‌iPad mini‌ 3, the iPhone 5s, ‌iPhone‌ 6, ‌iPhone‌ 6 Plus, and sixth-generation iPod touch, all of which are not compatible with iOS 13.

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The iOS 12.4.2 update can be downloaded on eligible devices over the air by opening up the Settings app, selecting the General section, and tapping on Software Update.

It's not clear what's included in iOS 12.4.2, but it is likely a security update that adds important security fixes for older devices that weren't able to get those updates through the newer software. Apple's release notes say the update "includes improvements, provides important security updates, and is recommended for all users."

A security support document provided alongside the update indicates that it fixes a vulnerability that could allow a remote attacker to case unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution.

Related Forum: iOS 12

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Top Rated Comments

macduke Avatar
75 months ago

How long do androids get updates?
Enough with the whataboutism. It’s the right thing to do. End of debate.
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
kyleh22 Avatar
75 months ago
I bet it slows old devices down to encourage users to upgrade their phones. JK, Apple would never do that.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
redheeler Avatar
75 months ago
Is Apple finally going to start issuing security updates for older versions of iOS on devices that are capped? If so, it's about time.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
JosephAW Avatar
75 months ago
Ummm what about newer devices that want to stay on iOS 12?

Now don't stop signing iOS 12.4.1 because I have to do a DFU install on my 7+
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
MvdM Avatar
75 months ago

I bet it slows old devices down to encourage users to upgrade their phones. JK, Apple would never do that.
To improve user experience. You don’t want your iphone to crash at the moment you want to take a picture.
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
xXRainKingXx Avatar
75 months ago
Is the purpose of this update to render all iOS 12 devices unusable? ;)
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)