
Apple released iOS 16.7.12 on September 15, 2025, as a security-focused update for older iPhones and iPads that cannot run iOS 17, iOS 18, or newer versions. While the update is important—patching a serious ImageIO vulnerability (CVE-2025-43300) that could allow malicious images to exploit your device (source: MacObserver)—some users are reporting issues after updating.
This guide covers the most common iOS 16.7.12 problems and step-by-step fixes.
Common iOS 16.7.12 Problems
- Update Not Installing / Stuck on “Verifying”
- Battery Draining Faster Than Usual
- Wi-Fi or Cellular Connectivity Issues
- Bluetooth Not Pairing Properly
- Apps Crashing or Freezing
- Touchscreen Lag or Performance Drops
- Storage Full Errors During Update
- Overheating After Update
Fixes for iOS 16.7.12 Problems
1. Update Not Installing or Stuck
- Make sure your device has at least 50% battery or is plugged in.
- Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- If stuck on “Verifying,” hold Power + Volume Down (or Home button for older models) until the device restarts.
- Try updating via Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) if OTA fails.
2. Battery Drain Issues
- After an update, iOS re-indexes files, which can cause temporary drain. Wait 24–48 hours.
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health to check apps causing drain.
- Disable Background App Refresh and Location Services for non-essential apps.
- Reset settings: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.
3. Wi-Fi or Cellular Issues
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off.
- Forget and reconnect to your Wi-Fi network.
- Reset Network Settings: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Update carrier settings: Settings > General > About (wait for prompt).
4. Bluetooth Not Working
- Toggle Bluetooth off and on.
- Forget the device and re-pair.
- If still broken: Reset Network Settings (same as above).
5. Apps Crashing or Freezing
- Update apps in the App Store.
- Delete and reinstall problem apps.
- If many apps crash, perform a force restart.
6. Performance Issues (Lag, Touchscreen Delay)
- Free up storage: Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Clear Safari cache: Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.
- Restart your iPhone regularly.
7. Storage Full Errors During Update
- Delete large unused apps, videos, or old messages.
- Offload apps: Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Offload Unused Apps.
- Update via computer if storage is too tight.
8. Overheating After Update
- Avoid charging while gaming or streaming.
- Remove case temporarily if device feels hot.
- Restart your iPhone to stop background processes.
When Nothing Works
If problems persist:
- Try a clean install of iOS 16.7.12 via Finder/iTunes instead of OTA.
- If your device is still unstable, contact Apple Support or book a Genius Bar appointment.
Should You Install iOS 16.7.12?
Yes—despite minor bugs, this update is critical. It fixes a dangerous ImageIO vulnerability that could allow attackers to hack your device with a malicious image (source: Apple Security Notes).
If you’re on an older iPhone or iPad, staying on iOS 16.7.11 leaves you exposed, so updating is strongly recommended.
✅ Bottom Line: iOS 16.7.12 is a must-have security update, but if you’re facing problems, most can be solved with a reset, reinstallation, or network tweaks.