Software
iPhone Users Report Reappearance of Previously Deleted Apps After iOS 18.4 Update
2025-04-02

In the wake of the iOS 18.4 rollout, a peculiar issue has emerged among some iPhone users. Following the update, which introduced several new features including enhanced AI capabilities and additional support for languages and locales, reports have surfaced about previously deleted applications mysteriously reappearing on devices. Some users even claim to find apps installed that they do not recall ever downloading. This unexpected behavior has sparked discussions across various online forums.

Mysterious App Resurrections Linked to iOS 18.4

Since the launch of iOS 18.4 earlier this week, a segment of iPhone users have noticed an unusual phenomenon where apps they had long removed from their devices are making a comeback. According to posts on Apple Support Communities and Reddit, these instances involve both previously uninstalled apps and ones users insist they never downloaded in the first place.

In one case shared by a Reddit user, the game "Squid Game" inexplicably appeared after the update, leading them to speculate it might be an issue with Apple's system. Another user found Dropbox unexpectedly installed on their device, despite having no prior memory of doing so themselves. Other examples include games like "Call of Duty" and "Infinite Lagrange," as well as creative software such as GarageBand.

A particularly intriguing situation involves a user who discovered "Cooking Mama" on their home screen. The App Store interface indicated that the app should be downloaded via the "Get" button rather than showing the usual "redownload" option, suggesting that this user had never officially owned the app before.

Although numerous threads discuss this anomaly, it seems to affect only a small fraction of iOS users. Apple has yet to address the matter publicly, leaving many questions unanswered regarding the root cause of these mysterious reinstallations.

These incidents occur amidst other enhancements brought by iOS 18.4, including priority notifications designed to highlight critical alerts and expanded artistic options within Image Playground, allowing users to generate detailed sketch drawings.

Despite the limited scope of affected individuals, the recurrence of similar stories adds credibility to the notion that there may indeed be a glitch tied to the recent software release.

From golden autumn leaves fluttering outside to fingers tapping screens indoors, technology continues to evolve rapidly. Yet occasional hiccups remind us how complex modern digital ecosystems truly are.

This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of regular backups and understanding one’s device settings better. For tech enthusiasts and casual users alike, staying informed about updates and potential quirks can enhance overall satisfaction with our gadgets. While waiting for official clarification from Apple, impacted users might consider exploring alternative solutions or reaching out directly to customer support for personalized assistance.

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