Apple Releases Mysterious iOS 12.1.2 Update After Just ONE Beta

Apple has released iOS 12.1.2 to the public, just about a week after the first beta became available for developers and software testers.

The update is a relatively light one. According to Apple’s release notes..

It fixes a bug impacting eSIM activation for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR.

It also addresses an issue that affected cellular connectivity in specific regions.

eSIM activations are now available from AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile as of the writing of this article. Once users download iOS 12.1.2, they shouldn’t experience any bugs with eSIM activations.

But while iOS 12.1.2 is a minor update, it is fairly unusual. Apple typically doesn’t rush a software update out after just one beta version.

Presumably, iOS 12.1.2 contains a fix that Apple opted not to wait to address.

As far as what that might be, it could be anyone’s guess. But it’s worth noting that iOS 12.1.2 lines up with a previously planned software update from Apple.

What’s Really Going on Here?

Last week, Chinese courts placed an import ban on certain iPhones due to an alleged violation of two Qualcomm patents.

Apple, in response, said it would release a software update that addresses any concerns about its devices violating those patents.

While iOS 12.1.2’s release notes don’t mention anything, its launch on Monday does certainly correlate with that timing.

Interestingly, the iOS 12.1.2 update is only available on iPhone — not on iPad or iPod touch. That further suggests that it could be related to the previously announced update.

But it’s also a bit confusing since reports suggested that iOS 12.1.2 also fixed a bug on iPad Pro. That could hint that an iPad and iPod touch version of the software may be on its way, or that the bug fix will be implemented in a future update.

How Do I Get It?

iPhone users can download it over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update.