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iPhone users urged to update phone immediately – or risk it being controlled

Lottie Casas May 6, 2021

If you own an iPhone, you need to update it now – after two major security issues were found in its 14.5 upgrade.

Apple's new iOS 14.5.1 dropped yesterday after flaws discovered in its 14.5 predecessor allowed others to remotely take control of your phone.

Apple’s security update document stated 14.5.1 fixes the bug where “Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution."

It added: “Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited.”

Yesterday's release, however, is said to have fixed the problem.

iOS 14.5, released on Monday, boasts a wealth of new features, including the ability to unlock the screen even when wearing a face mask.

Having to cover our nose and mouth due to the Covid crisis had been wreaking havoc with the Face ID security scanner found on most modern iPhones.

That’s all changed.

With iOS 14.5.1 installed, when Face ID spots a covering on your face it instantly links to the Apple Watch on your wrist. If that device is fully unlocked then the iPhone’s screen will automatically spring into life.

Along with that security update there are also new emojis, compatibility with the latest Xbox and PS5 controllers, plus App Tracking Transparency – which will stop companies from watching what you are up to online.

iOS 14.5.1 also allows users to change the screen's default orientation for different apps, such as Netflix, YouTube and Twitter, so they open they same way every time.

  • The best 'secret' iPhone hacks of 2021 – from faster charging to tape measures

Other features include improvements to its 'iOS Reminders' tool, 'Share ETA' in the 'Maps' app, and Siri-activated call answer, while the virtual assistant also gets a four new voices to choose from.

Meanwhile, there’s a new iPhone 12 launching, with Apple adding a fruity colour to the range.

Fans of these devices can grab the purple model in stores, with the smaller iPhone 12 mini also getting this makeover.

Other than that new lick of paint everything else is that same.

That means there’s a pin-sharp OLED screen, ludicrously fast A14 Bionic processor and access to the latest 5G data speeds.

Prices start from £699.

  • XBox
  • iPhone
  • Coronavirus
  • Apple
  • YouTube
  • Twitter
  • Netflix

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