Recently, users updating to iOS 18.4 have reported an unusual bug: random apps being automatically installed on their iPhones. These apps aren’t entirely arbitrary; many users have noticed the same small selection of apps appearing on their devices after the update. While this glitch is peculiar, it doesn’t pose a significant threat. Apple has faced numerous problematic software updates this year, and many consider the worst incident to be when iPadOS inadvertently bricked certain M4 iPad models.
Users were so severely impacted that Apple had to issue replacement devices and provide a public statement. In contrast, the iOS 18.4 issue is relatively minor. This recent bug mirrors a past issue where users discovered old, deleted photos reappearing on their phones post-update. However, in this case, most of the apps being installed were never downloaded by the users themselves.
As the complaints began circulating online, it became evident that many other iPhone users were experiencing the same problem, reinforcing the statewide nature of the glitch. As of now, Apple has not provided any official comment regarding this bug, but given the attention it has garnered, a fix is anticipated soon. While odd, the issues stemming from iOS 18.4 do not reflect the gravity of other software-related challenges faced by the company. The bigger concern lies in Apple’s ongoing struggles with the timely rollout of AI features, which have not only been delayed but have also fallen short in comparison to competitors in the market.
In light of these circumstances, we can expect Apple to address this matter rapidly and restore user confidence in their software updates.