Apple has released the first major update to iOS 11, and if you haven’t already updated you should download it immediately.
iOS 11.1 is here, and though it makes small improvements in many departments, it’s an essential update for two main reasons.
1. Security
You may remember a recent Wi-Fi security flaw known as Krack Attack, which affects all devices that connect wirelessly. The vulnerability meant that, in theory, hackers could steal information by posing as a known Wi-Fi connection and rerouting your data.
Though iPhones and iPads were much less susceptible than Android devices from the get-go, iOS 11.1 includes a complete fix for this issue and so it’s worth updating for peace of mind.
2. New emoji
Sure, this won’t be a dealbreaker for everyone, but iOS 11.1 marks the release of over 70 new emoji for use in messages. We previewed the new emoji set – which adds new pictograms including breastfeeding, beards, and broccoli – back in July for World Emoji Day, but this update marks their official release into the wild.
The new range is more inclusive and diverse than ever
Even if you’re not sold on the idea of more food emoji at your disposal, if you don’t update and your friends start sending the new symbols, you won’t be able to see them properly and you won’t have a clue what they’re talking about.
How to update
On top of those two big features, as usual Apple has made a slew of minor changes in addition to various unnamed “bug fixes and improvements” which should generally just make the iOS experience that little bit smoother.
To install iOS 11.1 for free, simply open the Settings app and tap General followed by Software Update.