Apple Pulls Beta Updates Due to Boot Loop and Bricking Issues
Apple recently released and quickly pulled iOS 18.4 beta 1, iPadOS 18.4 beta 1, and watchOS 11.4 beta 1 due to significant issues. The updates caused boot loops, rendering several iPhone and iPad models unusable, and even bricked some Apple Watch Series 6 devices. The One UI 7 release is imminent for Samsung devices.
Affected Devices
- iPhones: iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPads: iPad 8 (Cellular), iPad Air 4 (Wi-Fi & Cellular), iPad Air 11-inch (M2) (Cellular), iPad Air 13-inch (M2) (Cellular)
- Apple Watch: Series 6 (all models)
Users with these devices experienced continuous restarts or bricked devices after installing the updates. The issues come as the European smartphone market is expected to recover in 2024.
The Risks of Beta Software
These issues highlight the inherent risks of installing beta software, especially on older devices. While betas offer early access to new features, they can also introduce bugs and instability. Older hardware may struggle with the demands of new software, leading to problems like boot loops. For more information on software updates, see One UI 7 Beta 4.
Apple's Response and User Impact
Apple has not announced a timeline for re-releasing the updates, leaving affected users with unusable devices. One user reported both their iPhone and Apple Watch malfunctioning after the update, emphasizing the potential for widespread disruption.
Recommendations
Caution is advised when considering beta software. If your device is essential for daily use, waiting for a stable release is recommended. For non-essential devices, testing beta versions can be an option, but be prepared for potential issues.