watchOS 7.6.1 available with bug fixes on Apple Watch

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Earlier this week, Apple released iOS 14.7.1 and macOS Big Sur 11.5.1, so it's no surprise that watchOS 7.6.1 is on the agenda. Do not expect new functions: the version number already reveals that it is a minor update. Apple only mentions “important security updates” in its release notes. and recommends it to all users.

watchOS 7.6.1 available

Every once in a while, Apple releases minor bug fix updates, including for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch. Usually this is where Apple fixes problems, but often it's about improving security. This week, that was also the case with iOS 14.7.1 and beyond, where a vulnerability was patched that had been exploited by malicious parties. Apple may have patched this same vulnerability in watchOS 7.6.1.

In watchOS 7.6, which came out earlier, Apple added some new features. With that version you can view the air quality in the Netherlands via the Weather app and via a complication for your watch face.

watchOS 7.6.1 release notes

These are the release notes for this update:

This update provides important security updates and is recommended for all users.

Information about the security aspects of Apple software updates can be found at this page:
https://support.apple.com/kb/HT201222

The mentioned page states that watchOS 7.6.1 fixes a vulnerability with IOMobileFrameBuffer that could allow arbitrary code execution:

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

Download watchOS 7.6.1

To perform the update, do the following on the paired iPhone:

  1. Go to My Watch > General.
  2. Tap Software Update and wait for the update to download.
  3. Put the Apple Watch on the charger and wait patiently for the update to install.
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While the Apple Watch is updating, keep the paired iPhone nearby so as not to disrupt the update process. The Apple Watch can take more than an hour to update, so please be patient. In any case, make sure that the connection to the charger is not broken. To complete the installation, it is mandatory to hang the Apple Watch on the charger, so keep that in mind.

You can also update directly via the Apple Watch itself:

  1. Open the Settings app on the Apple Watch.
  2. Go to General > Software update.
  3. Wait for the Apple Watch to search for the update.
  4. Tap Download.
  5. After downloading, place the Apple Watch on the Charger. The installation will start automatically.

Failed to install? For watchOS installation problems, read our accompanying article.

Note: keep the comments on-topic, concrete and clear for others. Personal status updates of whether your download has started/success does not add anything to the discussion. It may also take a little longer before the update is visible. You don't have to report this either. These comments will be deleted.