iOS 18.4.1 Update Issue: Some iPhones Turn into "Brick Phones" After Latest iOS Update

Just five days after Apple rolled out the iOS 18.4.1 update for iPhones, users are reporting serious problems — with some devices becoming completely unusable, a phenomenon often called "bricking."

According to a report from IT media outlet Phone Arena on April 22, some iPhone users claimed their devices turned into "brick phones" after installing iOS 18.4.1. In the most alarming cases, the iPhone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number was no longer recognized, making network connection impossible.

One user, after experiencing the iOS update problem, visited an Apple service center. However, the representative explained that the only solution was to replace the iPhone’s mainboard — a costly repair that amounts to about 80% of the phone’s original price. As a result, the user decided not to proceed and was left without a functioning device.

Typically, if an iPhone’s IMEI or modem firmware information is missing, it indicates a critical issue with the device’s modem installed on the motherboard. Repairing this kind of damage involves complex disassembly and modem replacement — not an easy or inexpensive fix.

Phone Arena noted that while it is unlikely the iOS 18.4.1 update directly damaged the modem, similar problems occurred in the past. Some iPads were also bricked after an iPadOS update, suggesting that pre-existing hardware defects could be triggered by new firmware installations.

Last year, in September, Apple had to halt the distribution of iPadOS 18 updates due to a similar bricking issue with iPads equipped with the M4 chipset.

In addition to full device failures, users in iPhone communities have reported other iOS 18.4.1 issues, such as increased heat generation and faster battery drain after updating. Many are advising others to disable automatic updates until Apple officially addresses these problems.

Apple initially released iOS 18.4.1 on April 17, recommending users install the update promptly to fix various bugs and patch security vulnerabilities. However, with these iOS 18.4.1 update problems surfacing, users may want to proceed cautiously.

Should You Install iOS 18.4.1?

Given the current reports of iPhones bricked after iOS 18.4.1 update, it's wise to delay installing the update if your device is running smoothly. Always back up your iPhone before performing any major system updates, and consider turning off automatic iOS updates temporarily.

Stay tuned for further announcements from Apple, as they are likely investigating the root causes behind these critical iOS update issues.