iOS 14.8.1 and iPadOS 14.8.1 have been released with security updates for iPhone and iPad. Yes, this is a separate release track than iOS 15/iPadOS 15.
The updates are intended for users who are not yet on iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 releases, the latest of which is iOS 15.1 and iPadOS 15.1.
In a similar manner, macOS Big Sur 11.6.1 and a security update for MacOS Catalina are both available to users who are not yet interested in downloading macOS Monterey update.
How to Download & Install iOS 14.8.1 on iPhone or iPad
Always backup your iPhone or iPad to iCloud, Finder, or iTunes prior to starting a system software update.
- Open the “Settings” app on iPhone or iPad
- Go to “General”, then select “Software Update”
- Scroll down to ‘Also Available’ below the iOS 15/iPadOS 15 updates
- Choose to “Download and Install” iOS 14.8.1 or iPadOS 14.8.1
Installing software updates require the device to restart.
iOS 14.8.1 IPSW Links
- Updating…
iOS 14.8.1 / iPadOS 14.8.1 Release Notes
Release notes with the download are as follows:
Some users are simply haven’t installed iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 yet, while others may be actively avoiding it for various reasons. For example, some users may be attempting to avoid potential trouble as the kinks get worked out in initial releases.