Apple today released watchOS 7.6.1, a minor update to the watchOS 7 operating system, released in September 2020. The watchOS 7.6.1 update comes two weeks after the release of watchOS 7.6.
The watchOS 7.6.1 update includes important security updates and it is recommended that Apple Watch users should upgrade as soon as possible. An Apple security support document indicates that the update fixes a memory issue that may have been actively exploited in the wild. This is the same issue that Apple has already addressed in iOS 14.7.1 and macOS Big Sur 11.5.1.
IOMobileFrameBuffer
Available for: Apple Watch Series 3 and later
Impact: An application may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited.
Description: A memory corruption issue was addressed with improved memory handling.
CVE-2021-30807: an anonymous researcher
watchOS 7.6.1 can be installed on an Apple Watch Series 3 and newer via the Watch app on the device’s attached iPhone. Go to “General” -> “Software Update” to install the new software. The Watch should have at least 50% battery life, be connected to a charger, and be in the range of the iPhone.
It is likely that we’ll only be seeing minor updates to the watchOS 7 operating system from here on, as Apple moves its attention to finishing up watchOS 8 for a fall release.
