iPhone Users Beware, New iMessage ‘Text Bug’ Is Freezing Devices

A new bug that targets the iMessage feature on iPhones called “chaiOS” is currently floating around. Users who receive a message containing this bug are warned not to open it because it will cause their devices to crash. Fortunately, it doesn’t seem to cause any permanent damage, but it’s worth avoiding the hassle.

One of the first to notice the problem was Twitter user Abraham Masri, who Tweeted about how an iMessage containing a certain link would cause iPhones to freeze, crash, and then restart. While he did include the link in his message, he warned others not to abuse it as it is intended only to get the word out.

The folks over at 9To5Mac tested the link out to see if it really did what Masri claimed and have since confirmed it to be the case. Their devices froze and crashed.

The most alarming part of this development, however, is that it seems no one knows exactly what’s causing iOS devices to shut down when opening the link. The publication notes its similarities to past trends of pranking friends with links that caused their phones to have a seizure. However, the irresponsible use of such a feature might not be taken lightly by everyone.

As Engadget notes, the bug does not appear to cause lasting damage, but it can cause major irritation. Not everyone is going to appreciate the humor of seeing their iPhones freak out, especially if they are not even aware of this new trend.

The publication has since reached out to Apple, but so far, the company has made no response. There has also been no word if there is already a fix on the way, but considering how protective Apple is of its brand, the bug is going to be patched one way or another.