iPadOS 17.7.7: Security Update Leads to System-Wide Issues

Apple's recent release of iPadOS 17.7.7 aimed to address numerous security vulnerabilities in older iPad models. However, users have reported multiple operational issues following the installation of this update.

The update, which does not introduce any new features, was primarily intended to close over two dozen security gaps. Users were encouraged to apply the update promptly for their devices' protection. Unfortunately, various reports indicate that the update has led to significant performance problems across several applications and system functionalities.

iPadOS 17.7.7 is compatible with older iPads that do not support iPadOS 18.5, including models such as the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation), the 10.5-inch iPad Pro, and the iPad 6. However, many users have expressed frustration, stating that their devices have become unreliable after installing the update. Common grievances include the loss of previously saved settings, affecting the usability of popular applications such as X, GMX, and DuckDuckGo. Even Apple's own Safari browser is reportedly malfunctioning, with iWork applications like Pages and Numbers repeatedly reverting to their initial setup screens.

While the exact cause of these issues remains unclear, it is speculated that one or more of the security fixes introduced in this update may be responsible for the unintended side effects. Apple has modified various functionalities, including iCloud Document Sharing, parental controls, and sandbox profiles, which may have inadvertently impacted the internal settings storage. There are claims that similar issues were identified during the beta testing phase of iPadOS 17.7.7, but reports to Apple may not have been adequately addressed.

The problems caused by this update necessitate users to frequently re-enter their login credentials for numerous applications. Users have reported that Safari appears to restart with every launch, as if it were being opened for the first time. It is worth noting that these issues do not seem to stem from insufficient device storage, as users would typically receive error notifications in such cases rather than experiencing a complete loss of settings.

As of now, Apple has not released an official statement regarding these concerns, and it remains uncertain when a fix will be made available. Users are advised to monitor Apple's communications for any updates regarding this situation.