As Apple rolls out its latest update, iOS 18.4.1, a small but growing number of users are reporting serious issues that could potentially render their iPhones inoperable. While Apple recommends the update to address a critical security flaw, many are left wondering if it might be safer to hold off until a patched version is released.
Several users have taken to forums and social media with alarming tales of their devices being "bricked" after upgrading to iOS 18.4.1. Reports indicate that affected iPhones can no longer detect their IMEI numbers, essentially locking out users and raising concerns about device theft prevention mechanisms. Efforts to restore functionality through conventional methods—even with professional help at Apple service centers—have failed for some, leaving them to consider costly repairs or replacements.
While it seems improbable that the iOS update could have damaged the iPhone modem, some speculate that a pre-existing defect may have been exacerbated by the software update, similar to a previous incident where the One UI 6 update bricked Galaxy S22 devices worldwide—particularly those with Exynos chips. This raises an important question: should users take the risk and update now, or wait for a more stable release?
