iOS 18.3.1 update set to fix iPhone bugs ahead of major Siri AI overhaul

Apple is set to release another iPhone software update in the coming days on the heels of iOS 18.3. This time around, the focus will apparently be on squashing bugs and possibly restoring a controversial AI feature that was recently disabled. Here’s what you need to know about Apple's upcoming update, titled iOS 18.3.1. Apple has started internally testing iOS 18.3.1, according to tech sites 9to5Mac and MacRumors, which spotted the update in visitor logs, suggesting it could arrive soon.

These logs track the devices accessing certain websites or services, revealing which iOS versions are being used – often tipping off upcoming releases before they're officially announced. Based on Apple’s usual update pattern, iOS 18.3.1 is expected to land in the second or third week of February 2025, following the release of iOS 18.3 on January 27. Apple typically rolls out minor updates a few weeks after major releases to fix lingering bugs and improve performance, meaning its release could be imminent. For instance, iOS 17.3 was released on January 22, 2024, followed by iOS 17.3.1 just two weeks later on February 8.

While iOS 18.3 may not bring any flashy new features, it’s shaping up to be a crucial update for anyone dealing with frustrating glitches. Connectivity issues with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with camera app problems, have left users frustrated, as well as delays and bugs when switching between light and dark modes. Others have struggled with the Mail app freezing or failing to sync and unresponsive controls in the Control Centre.

In addition, iPhone users have reported increased battery drain, app crashes, and general performance niggles, particularly on newer models like the iPhone 15 Pro. With all these issues plaguing the current update, iOS 18.3.1 will likely be a welcome relief for many. Most of the new stuff will work its magic behind the scenes, fixing bugs and any security flaws. Apple may also reinstate the AI-generated notification summaries for news and entertainment that it paused with iOS 18.3 due to a raft of misleading headlines.

iOS 18.3.1 is bookended by two major updates: iOS 18.3 and the upcoming iOS 18.4. The latter will arrive in the spring with an upgraded Siri that can recognise and interact with what’s on your screen. So, when someone sends you their details in a text, the digital helper will add numbers or addresses to a contact card automatically. The assistant will also handle multiple actions in a single command, like sending photos or surfacing articles from Safari, making it more intuitive.