Sat Mar 15 08:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Surprise Apple iOS Update Patches Critical Security Flaw, But Re-enables Apple Intelligence

**CUPERTINO, CA – March 13, 2024** – Apple unexpectedly released iOS 18.3.2 on Tuesday, a minor update that addresses a significant security vulnerability actively exploited in real-world attacks, according to the tech giant. While touted as fixing bugs and improving streaming content playback, the update has also drawn criticism for automatically re-enabling Apple Intelligence, even for users who previously disabled the feature.

The security flaw, affecting WebKit (Safari’s engine), involves maliciously crafted web content. This is a refinement of a patch initially deployed in iOS 17.2 last year, with Apple stating it’s aware of reports that the vulnerability was used in sophisticated attacks targeting specific individuals. The company claims the improved checks in iOS 18.3.2 prevent unauthorized actions.

The surprise update, weighing in at around 700MB, is compatible with iPhones from the iPhone Xs (2018) onwards. Its unexpected arrival, preceding the anticipated iOS 18.4 release in April, has left some users frustrated by the forced reactivation of Apple Intelligence, a feature that can consume up to 7GB of storage. While users can easily disable Apple Intelligence in the Settings app, many feel the update should have respected previous user preferences or at least prompted for confirmation before enabling the feature.

“This update provides important bug fixes, security updates, and addresses an issue that may prevent playback of some streaming content,” Apple’s concise release notes state. Further details about the specific streaming issue remain undisclosed.

The unexpected release highlights Apple’s ongoing battle against sophisticated cyberattacks and underscores the importance of keeping iOS software updated. Users are advised to download and install iOS 18.3.2 immediately to mitigate the security risks.

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