Code found in the latest iOS 14.5 beta suggests that Apple is planning a major policy move that would allow users to download security patches separately from operating system updates.
Sought by 9to5Mac on Monday, the new opportunity could allow users running old operating systems to maintain device security without updating to the latest version of iOS. For example, an older iPhone owner running iOS 13 could download security updates typically packaged with newer iOS 14 point notifications.
Some iPhone and iPad owners are reticent to upgrade old devices to Apple’s latest and greatest operating systems, fearing that the new software could lead to poor system performance or excessive battery drainage. On the other hand, some users prefer the feature sets of older operating systems. That can adversely affect the security of Apple ‘s ecosystem, as the company packs security reviews with newer versions of OS.
Sharing security updates in downloads alone, similar to the approach applied to macOS, could significantly reduce the impact of new threat vectors for new and old hardware. That could soon be possible, according to the code found today.
It is unclear whether or when Apple plans to release the feature. The report notes code in the iOS 14.5 beta points to an option to automatically delete old downloaded updates, noting that updates can be started manually.
Apple is expected to release iOS 14.5 in the coming weeks with Transparency Tracking App, Face ID unlock support with Apple Watch, game controller support, new emoji and more.
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