# iOS 18.4: The Strange Case of Apps Coming Back
Recently, an odd issue has surfaced after the launch of Apple’s iOS 18.4 update. Numerous users have indicated that apps they had previously deleted from their iPhones are inexplicably reemerging on their devices. This occurrence has ignited conversations across various platforms, including Reddit and Apple Support Communities, where users exchange their stories and frustrations.
## What’s New in iOS 18.4?
Unveiled on March 31, 2025, iOS 18.4 brought a multitude of new features designed to improve user experience. Among the most significant enhancements are:
– **Apple Intelligence Features**: Exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 devices, these features include priority notifications that showcase important alerts and a new Sketch style feature in the Image Playground for creating artistic imagery.
– **Broadened Language Support**: The update includes support for eight new languages and two additional English locales, enhancing accessibility for users around the globe.
– **Vision Pro App**: A fresh application tailored for Apple’s Vision Pro headset, expanding the range of applications accessible to users.
– **Culinary Enhancements in Apple News+**: Improvements targeted at food enthusiasts, delivering more captivating content related to culinary arts.
– **New Features in Photos**: Upgrades to the Photos app aimed at better organization and editing functionalities.
While these updates have been generally well-received, the return of deleted apps has cast a shadow over some of the favorable changes.
## The Return of Deleted Apps
Reports of apps reappearing on iPhones began to inundate social media and online forums soon after upgrading to iOS 18.4. Users observed that apps they had previously uninstalled, such as “Last War Survival,” “Squid Game,” and “Call of Duty,” suddenly appeared on their home screens without any prompts from them.
One user recounted their experience in an Apple Support Communities thread, stating:
> “After updating to iOS 18.4, my iPhone randomly reinstalled ‘Last War Survival’. This app was installed on my iPhone a few months back but was uninstalled within hours. Now it’s back on my Home Screen. Many users are reporting the same issue with various apps.”
This problem has impacted not only apps that users had deleted but also some that they assert they never installed. For example, one user noted that “Cooking Mama” showed up on their device, even though the App Store indicates they never owned it.
## User Reactions and Theories
The community’s reaction has been a combination of confusion and worry. Many are theorizing whether this is a bug related to the new update or a flaw in the App Store’s data syncing. Some have even suggested that the issue might be associated with how iOS handles app data and user preferences during updates.
Here are some significant comments from users facing similar problems:
– “I experienced the same: Dropbox was suddenly installed on my iPhone.”
– “I have GarageBand, which I had uninstalled before.”
– “After I updated, the game Infinite Lagrange was reinstalled, even though I had removed it.”
Despite the reports highlighting a considerable number of affected users, it remains uncertain if this is a widespread problem or confined to a select few devices.
## Apple’s Position
At present, Apple has not provided an official statement regarding the situation. Users are encouraged to keep an eye on their devices and report any strange behavior to Apple Support. Those experiencing this issue should review their app settings and might consider reinstalling the iOS update if deemed necessary.
## Conclusion
The reemergence of deleted apps post-iOS 18.4 update has raised eyebrows among iPhone users. Although the new features presented in the update hold promise, the unexpected return of unwanted apps has fostered a sense of discomfort. As more users share their observations, it remains to be seen how Apple will tackle this issue and whether a resolution will be introduced in future updates. For now, users are advised to remain alert and report any irregularities to ensure a seamless iPhone experience.
