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iOS 6.1.3 released, squashes passcode bypass bug

Apple's latest smart phone software sorts out a bug that let you access an iPhone's Phone app without entering the passcode.

Luke Westaway Senior editor
Luke Westaway is a senior editor at CNET and writer/ presenter of Adventures in Tech, a thrilling gadget show produced in our London office. Luke's focus is on keeping you in the loop with a mix of video, features, expert opinion and analysis.
Luke Westaway

Security-conscious iPhone owners can stop sleeping with their smart phones under their pillows -- Apple's latest software update has sorted a bug that allowed access to the phone without the need to enter a passcode.

The glitch was spotted in February, and granted access to an iPhone's Phone app using a button-tapping wriggle-around. The erroneous code meant that anyone with access to your phone could listen to your voicemails or peruse your contacts.

Happily iOS version 6.1.3 is out now, and sprays Raid directly into the eyes of that passcode bug. Improvements to the Maps app in Japan are also included, which is just as well, as there's every chance you'd wind up in Japan if you tried to navigate using Apple's atrocious cartographical software.

An iPhone 5 in the CNET UK office has received the update -- it's a reasonable 18MB if you're going from iOS 6.1.2 to 6.1.3. Don't be alarmed if your iPhone hasn't received the new software just yet, as these things can take a little time to roll out to everyone.

iOS 6 was released in September of last year, introducing new Siri options, the Passbook app and a Do Not Disturb feature.

Has iOS 6.1.3 arrived on your phone? Did Apple fix the passcode glitch quickly enough for your liking? Sound off in the comments or on our Facebook wall.

Image credit: MacRumours