iOS 18.3.2: 5 Things To Do IMMEDIATELY After Updating!

Have you just updated your iPhone to iOS 18.3.2? While this might seem like a minor update without flashy new features, it’s actually critically important for your device’s security and performance. Apple released this update without any beta testing phases, pushing it directly to the public to address urgent security vulnerabilities. Once you’ve installed iOS 18.3.2, there are several crucial steps you should take immediately to ensure your iPhone is running at its optimal performance.

Why iOS 18.3.2 Matters

Though small in size, iOS 18.3.2 packs a significant punch when it comes to your device’s security. These “point” updates often fly under the radar, but they typically contain vital fixes for security vulnerabilities that could otherwise leave your personal data exposed. Taking a few minutes to properly configure your device after updating can make a world of difference in your iPhone experience.

5 Essential Actions After Installing iOS 18.3.2

1. Check Your Apple Intelligence Settings

Here’s something important you need to know: iOS 18.3.2 automatically re-enables Apple Intelligence on compatible devices, even if you previously had it turned off. This might come as a surprise if you deliberately disabled this feature before.

To check or adjust your Apple Intelligence settings:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
2. Scroll down and tap on “Apple Intelligence & Siri”
3. Look for the main toggle switch at the top of the screen
4. If you prefer not to use Apple Intelligence, you can turn it off again

While Apple Intelligence offers numerous benefits like improved text predictions and smarter Siri responses, some users prefer to disable it due to privacy concerns or to conserve battery life. The choice is yours, but be aware that this update resets your previous preference.

2. Update Your Carrier Settings

When Apple releases new iOS versions, many carriers also push out their own updates to optimize network connectivity. These updates can significantly improve your call quality, data speeds, and overall reception.

To check for carrier updates:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap on “General”
3. Tap on “About”
4. Wait on this screen for a few seconds

If a carrier update is available, a prompt will automatically appear on your screen. These updates are typically small and install quickly without requiring a device restart. Don’t skip this step—better network connectivity means improved battery life and fewer dropped calls!

3. Review Your Battery Health

After updating to iOS 18.3.2, it’s crucial to check your iPhone’s battery health status. iOS updates often recalibrate battery health measurements, potentially revealing a more accurate (and sometimes lower) health percentage.

To check your battery health:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap on “Battery”
3. Tap on “Battery Health & Charging”

If your battery health percentage was already hovering around 80% before updating, the recalibration might push it below the critical threshold where Apple begins throttling performance to prevent unexpected shutdowns. If your battery health drops below 80%, consider scheduling a battery replacement to restore your iPhone’s performance.

4. Update All Your Apps

App developers frequently release updates to ensure compatibility with the latest iOS version. Having outdated apps on a freshly updated iOS can lead to crashes, bugs, and security vulnerabilities.

To update all your apps at once:

1. Open the App Store
2. Tap on your profile picture in the top right corner
3. Scroll down to see available updates
4. Tap “Update All” if multiple updates are available

Alternatively, you can enable automatic app updates:

1. Go to Settings
2. Scroll down and tap “App Store”
3. Under “Automatic Downloads,” toggle on “App Updates”

When your apps are up-to-date, they’ll work more smoothly with iOS 18.3.2’s system frameworks and security features, providing you with the best possible experience.

5. Enable Automatic iOS Updates

With iOS 18.4 expected to arrive in April and potentially smaller security updates like iOS 18.3.2 in between, it’s wise to ensure your iPhone stays protected by enabling automatic updates.

To configure automatic iOS updates:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap on “General”
3. Tap on “Software Update”
4. Tap on “Automatic Updates”
5. Enable both “Download iOS Updates” and “Install iOS Updates”

With automatic updates enabled, your iPhone will download updates in the background (typically overnight while charging) and install them during times when you’re unlikely to be using your device. This ensures you’re always protected against the latest security threats without having to manually check for updates.

The Bottom Line

iOS 18.3.2 may not come with exciting new features, but it’s an essential update for maintaining your iPhone’s security and performance. By taking these five simple steps immediately after updating, you’ll ensure your device continues to run smoothly and securely until the next major update.

Remember that these seemingly small maintenance tasks can make a significant difference in your everyday iPhone experience. Taking a few minutes now to properly configure your device after updating to iOS 18.3.2 will save you potential headaches down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions About iOS 18.3.2

What security issues does iOS 18.3.2 fix?

While Apple doesn’t always disclose specific vulnerabilities until they’ve been widely patched, iOS 18.3.2 addresses critical security bugs that could potentially allow unauthorized access to your device or data. These point releases are essential for maintaining your privacy and security.

Will iOS 18.3.2 slow down my older iPhone?

No, iOS 18.3.2 is primarily a security update and shouldn’t negatively impact performance. In fact, checking your battery health after updating (as suggested above) is a more likely culprit if you notice slowdowns after updating.

Is iOS 18.3.2 available for all iPhone models?

iOS 18.3.2 is available for iPhone XS and newer models. If you have an older device, you may receive a different security update version appropriate for your hardware.

How long does it take to install iOS 18.3.2?

The installation typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on your iPhone model and internet speed. The update file itself is relatively small compared to major iOS versions.

Should I wait before updating to iOS 18.3.2?

No, you should install iOS 18.3.2 as soon as possible. Since it focuses on security fixes rather than new features, the risks of not updating are greater than any potential minor bugs that might be introduced.

How can I verify that iOS 18.3.2 is properly installed on my iPhone?

Go to Settings > General > About and check the “Software Version” field. It should display “18.3.2” if the update was successfully installed.