![iPhone 13 preorder](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2Z7nNB7aaWdHHVJDduFr3K-415-80.jpg)
Though the release of iOS 15 is mere hours away, Apple users should make sure today that their device is running the latest version of its software. On the iPhone and iPad that’s iOS 14.8, while macOS 11.6 should be your current on MacBooks and iMacs and watchOS 7.6.2 on the Apple Watch.
According to Bloomberg, the patch fixes a security flaw in the Messages app that allows malware to be sent to your device in a PDF and the file doesn’t even need to be opened to gain access.
The new update was released on Monday and if you have auto-updates selected, you device should already be up to date. To check your device is running the latest software version and to manually install the updates, follow the steps below.
- iPhone 13 pre orders: the best deals on the new iPhones
How to check your Apple software version
To check what software you are running on your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is showing, click on download and install. The latest update (iOS 14.8) is 312.4MB, so you may want to be on Wi-Fi and plugged into a power socket before installing.
For Apple Watch you can follow the same steps as above on your watch to install directly, or go to the Watch app on your iPhone and select Settings > General > Software update. To install the update your watch will need to be on its charger and in range of your phone, connected to Wi-Fi.
On MacBooks and iMacs, go to the Apple in the top left of the screen and select About This Mac, then click on Software Update. This will check and give you the option to update now. This is a bigger update (2.64GB) and may take some time to install.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless review: great mid-range earbuds
Sennheiser's Accentum range expands with new in-ears
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
Team GB has already won a gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics for the best-looking merchandise
I’m low-key obsessed with this Paris 2024 Olympics bomber jacket – and you can buy it, too.
By Matt Kollat Published
-
iPhone 17 slated for one massive camera upgrade which photographers will love
The question is, will it be too technical for non-photographers?
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple Vision Pro just got a load of new reasons to justify that cost
Some of the extra content coming sounds incredible
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple's iPad is now at a record-low price this Amazon Prime Day
If you've been waiting to pick up an Apple iPad, now might be the time to buy
By David Nield Published
-
Surprise new Apple HomePod mini arrives, and you can order it today
Apple has announced a new Apple HomePod mini
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Diver gets his Apple Watch back a year after losing it in the ocean – thanks to Find My
When technology works, it really works
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Forget Amazon Prime Day – MacBook Air now at lowest-ever price at Walmart
Apple silicon computing for less
By David Nield Published
-
iPhone 16 Pro could finally add something Android users have been enjoying for years
This is one rumour we can definitely get on board with
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
iPhone 16 "design changes" could impact Face ID on forthcoming handsets
No one's sure what it'll look like
By Max Freeman-Mills Published