iPhone customers will get a serious new software program replace this fall with iOS 26 and its Liquid Glass design. However the subsequent iPhone replace, iOS 18.6, will launch a lot sooner. Right here’s what Apple’s official launch notes say is coming.
iOS 18.6 focuses on stability and safety because the anticipated remaining noteworthy replace
Apple’s software program growth follows a reasonably predictable schedule.
Yearly, Apple introduces massive new OS variations at WWDC in June, then ships these updates within the fall—normally September.
Nevertheless, between June and September, there’s sometimes yet another noteworthy replace to the present variations of Apple software program.
This yr, that’s iOS 18.6, macOS 15.6, watchOS 11.6, and so forth.
Apple’s purpose with these updates isn’t normally so as to add new options, however fairly to optimize efficiency and supply as many safety fixes as attainable earlier than shifting its full focus to the subsequent OS model—on this case, iOS 26.
Launch notes for iOS 18.6 have now confirmed that will probably be true once more this yr. They are saying:
This replace gives essential bug fixes and safety updates, and fixes a difficulty in Images that might stop reminiscence films from being shared.
Aaron Zollo posted the notes on X, which arrived through an up to date iOS 18.6 RC for Public Beta testers.
Apple’s official notes verify that there aren’t anticipated to be new options in iOS 18.6, simply essential fixes that ought to make your iPhone run smoother than earlier than.
For those who’re within the EU, nonetheless, you’ll discover a pair function modifications. Particularly, the method of putting in third-party app marketplaces or apps from the net has modified.
It’s been believed that Apple Intelligence may lastly launch in China in iOS 18.6 too. That’s nonetheless attainable, for the reason that notes Zollo posted are for US customers. Nevertheless it appears unlikely Apple would implement such a serious revision with out us listening to about it through the beta course of.
iOS 18.6 is anticipated to launch any day now, with early subsequent week being the more than likely launch date. It will not be essentially the most thrilling launch, however bug fixes and safety updates are all the time essential. And in case you’re in search of new options, iOS 26 in only a couple months could have you lined.
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