Apple Releases Minor Updates to iOs, macOS, watchOS, TVOS and HomePod

Today has seen another round of software updates from Apple, with minor releases for iOS, macOS, Apple Watch, Apple TV and HomePod.

With major updates due this fall for each of these platforms, it is extremely likely that the focus of today's releases is on bug fixes and under-the-hood performance improvements to address issues discovered since the previous releases; and that there are no significant user-facing changes.

According to AppleInsider, iOs 11.4.1:

fixes AirPod tracking in Find My iPhone, and improves the reliability of mail, contact, and note sync for Microsoft Exchange. Anecdotal evidence suggests the update may also solve battery drain some people have experienced.

Additionally, the update includes USB Restricted Mode, which prevents USB accessories such as the GrayKey from downloading data from your device over a USB connection if your device has been locked for more than an hour.

The macOS 10.13.6 update includes support for Airplay 2 multi-room audio in iTunes, as well as other minor fixes.

AirPlay 2 for iTunes - Control your home audio system and AirPlay 2-enabled speakers throughout your house - Play music at the same time on multiple AirPlay 2-enabled speakers in your house, all in sync

Other improvements and fixes

• Fixes an issue that may prevent Photos from recognizing AVCHD media from some cameras
• Fixes an issue that may prevent Mail users from moving a message from Gmail to another account

At the time of posting, we are unaware of any changes for blind and low vision users in today's releases. If you do spot any fixes, regressions or enhancements, please do let us know by posting a comment below.

How to Update

iOS 11.4.1 is available via Over-the-Air Update (Settings > General > Software Update) or via iTunes on a Mac or PC.

macOS 10.13.6 is available via the updates tab in the Mac AppStore.

HomePod 11.4.1 should install automatically after installing iOS 11.4.1 on the associated iOS device.

To install tvOS 11.4.1, go to the Settings channel then look for the System section near the bottom. From here, look for Software Updates under Maintenance, then select Update Software and Download and Install.

watchOS 4.3.2 is available by going to the Watch app on your iPhone and navigating to General> Software Update. To install the update, your Watch must be connected to its charger and have at least 50% battery power.