Following local reports that the latest iOS update (iOS 11.3) breaks screens not repaired by Apple, South African mobile repairs experts weFix counters claims that the update targets independent third parties.

weFix COO Grant Webster says that bugs in iOS updates are common, driven by device manufacturers, like Apple and others using Android, competing for the podium position on new features.

Grant added that touch screen functionality was just one of a host of bugs reported in iOS 11.3. 

“We’re seeing reports of slower Wi-Fi connectivity, new emojis not displaying correctly, random reboots, certain apps not opening or crashing regularly, keyboard bugs and the list continues. To say that this update targets third-party screens is simply not correct,” he said.

“Similar issues were reported in October 2017 when iOS 11 released, and most issues were resolved when an update was pushed to market just eight days later.”

While weFix has not yet received news of any local screen incidences, its network of technicians continues to monitor the issue. The company has distributed internal communication with instructions not to update client devices to iOS 11.3 until further notice.

“If you have had a screen replacement performed on an iPhone 8, do not upgrade to iOS 11.3 until Apple releases a patch to fix the touch issue,” advises Grant.

“As a rule, I tend not to install any iOS update until bugs are ironed out, usually after two to three weeks. I check online to see if any bugs are still reported, and then only proceed with updates because there’s nothing worse than an inexplicably slow or misfunctioning device that runs out of battery by lunchtime.”

And if consumers have already updated their devices, and begin encountering touch functionality screen issues?

“Most importantly, don't panic. It is highly unlikely that this is a permanent issue,” says Grant. 

“As has been the case with previous software updates, we anticipate that a patch will be released within days. Should consumers experience and hardware or software issues with their Apple or other devices, we invite them to bring their devices to weFix for a check-up a professional diagnosis by one of our expert technicians.”