iOS 8.3 Update Problem: iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus Touch ID Issue Raises Security Concern

By Richard Waelty
Apple iPhone 6 Touch ID
Apple iPhone 6 Touch ID

A recent iOS 8.3 Touch ID bug on Apple's iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus has serious implications for security. Even though the issue was resolved, Apple may not be able to afford another such hiccup next time.

"Touch ID is not only at the centre of iOS security, but it is also the key to Apple Pay - a service which is critically acclaimed, but where Apple remains desperate to build user confidence," Forbes contributor Gordon Kelly opinionated on April 9.

Kelly also pointed out that Apple is set to launch a Beats-based streaming music service that will be reliant on Touch ID's security features. Similar issues in the future could potentially bring harmful internet attacks.

When iOS 8.3 was released Wednesday, April 8, a number of users reported Touch ID issues while attempting to purchase from Apple's App Store.

"I just updated to iOS 8.3 and it completely removed my ability to use Touch ID in the App Store on my iPhone 6," a redditer complained. "It asks for my password for each and every purchase. Is anyone else seeing this? The option to use Touch ID in the App Store is on. I have already tried turning it off and on again to re-enter my password."

The poster's sentiment was echoed on an discussion board at Apple's official forum. That discussion board even had advice on uninstalling iOS 8.3. After the Touch ID bug was addressed, complaints have largely died down.

iOS 8.3 Features

In spite of the initial Touch ID bug, iOS 8.3 fixes a number of bugs and adds new features. One feature includes a redesigned Emoji keyboard along with 300 new emoji. Notably, the user can change the skin color on a couple of emoji.

Also, iOS 8.3 fixes longstanding Wi-Fi issues that have been present on a number of Apple device. However, WhatHiFi reported that the Wi-Fi bug persists for some users.

One annoying bug that has reportedly been resolved with iOS 8.3 is the screen orientation issue. Previously, many Apple users reported that their devices stayed in landscape mode regardless of the phone's position.

Other features included additional language and country support for Siri, removing shipping and billing addresses from Apple Pay, and fixing slide-to-unlock issues. Regarding navigation, iOS 8.3 apparently improves the pronunciation of street names by Apple Maps. In the area of texting, FYI will no longer be auto-corrected.

Apple owners who prefer jailbreak may want to hold off on installing the iOS 8.3 update. Developers have not been able to jailbreak iOS 8.3 successfully. So, delays will be expected. As of now, there has been no word on when jailbreak will be ready for iOS 8.3.

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