Apple released iOS 16.5.1 (a) and macOS 13.4.1 (a) on Monday as Rapid Security Response (RSR) updates for its smartphones, tablets, and Macs. The update was released for apple devices which addressed a vulnerability in Apple’s browser engine that could have been exploited by hackers to remotely execute malicious code on a user’s device and obtain access to their data.
However, hours after releasing the iOS 16.5.1(a) and macOS 13.4.1(a) security update, Apple reportedly withdrew the software update due to a bug and is anticipated to release it once the problem has been resolved.
The iOS 16.5.1 (a) and iPadOS 16.5.1 RSR updates were made available to users on Monday, alongside a remedy for a WebKit vulnerability that could allow arbitrary code execution when processing malicious web content. Apple advised all users to install the iOS 16.5.1(a) and macOS 13.4.1(a) update after receiving a report that the security flaw was being actively exploited, and attributed an anonymous researcher with discovering the vulnerability.
However, according to user reports on the MacRumors forum, Facebook, Instagram, Zoom, and WhatsApp began displaying a warning that Apple’s Safari browser was unsupported. According to reports, this is due to the incorporation of the (a) from update version in the “user agent” for Safari, which identifies the user when connecting to a website.
Upon discovering the flaw, Apple reportedly retracted the iOS 16.5.1(a) and macOS 13.4.1(a) update.
Users who have downloaded and installed the update can revert to iOS 16.5.1 and iPadOS 16.5.1 by
Apple is expected to release an update for iOS, iPad, and macOS once the Safari user agent error has been resolved, and users who have downgraded due to the issue should install the update once it is released with the security flaw fixes.
- navigating to Settings > General > About > iOS Version and
- tapping Remove Security Update.
