Apple surprised users with the quick release of iOS 17.5.1 on Monday, May 20, just one week after the launch of iOS 17.5. This rapid update, which is rare for Apple, raised questions about whether users should install it or skip it. The update is compatible with all iPhones released in 2018 or later, including the latest models such as iPhone 15, as well as the iPhone SE second and third-generation.
The main focus of the iOS 17.5.1 update is to address a specific issue that arose from the previous iOS 17.5 release. Some users reported that photos they had deleted from their iPhones and iPads years ago were reappearing, causing discomfort. Apple acknowledged this as a rare phenomenon, attributing it to the way storage works on devices. When an image is deleted, it is not immediately overwritten, and can reappear during certain procedures. While other bug fixes may have been included in the update, the main priority is to resolve the Photos problem.
Apple has not identified any security issues in the iOS 17.5.1 update, suggesting that it mainly focuses on resolving the Photos problem. Initial reactions from users have been mostly positive, with many understanding that it was not a deliberate act by Apple to keep copies of their photos. Instead, the images were stored on the device and resurfaced due to the nature of storage systems in devices. As one Reddit user put it, “There is no grand conspiracy, it’s just the way storage in our devices work.”
Based on the initial reactions and the absence of new problems being reported, the recommendation is to upgrade to iOS 17.5.1, especially if you were affected by the zombie image bug. For users who did not experience the issue, installing the update appears to be safe. While there are some concerns about unresolved issues, there is no evidence of new problems being introduced. The situation will continue to be monitored, with a final verdict expected on Tuesday, May 28 after further assessment of the update’s performance and user feedback.
