Apple’s latest software updates may be light on flashy features, but they are heavy on security. With the release of iOS 26.3, Apple has addressed 37 security vulnerabilities affecting iPhone and iPad users.
If you’ve been delaying the update, this is your sign to install it.
iOS 26.3 security fixes: What you need to know
According to Apple’s official security release notes, iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 fix 37 security issues.
Most of these vulnerabilities were not publicly known to be actively exploited. However, at least one stands out.
Actively exploited vulnerability
Apple confirmed that a dyld vulnerability could allow:
- An attacker with memory write capability
- To execute arbitrary code
More concerning, Apple says it is aware that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack targeting specific individuals on versions of iOS prior to iOS 26.
That makes this update particularly important.
Other updates released
Apple also published security details for the following updates:
- iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5
- macOS Tahoe 26.3
- macOS Sequoia 15.7.4
- macOS Sonoma 14.8.4
- tvOS 26.3
- watchOS 26.3
- visionOS 26.3
Across the board, these releases focus primarily on stability improvements and vulnerability patches rather than new features.
Should you update?
Yes. Even if most vulnerabilities were not widely exploited, security patches protect against:
- Arbitrary code execution
- Memory corruption
- Potential remote attacks
Security updates are often more important than feature updates. And when Apple specifically mentions targeted exploitation, that adds urgency.
How to update to iOS 26.3
To install the update:
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
- Tap Download and Install
Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery. You can also grab the IPSW files for a clean install from the direct links here.
