iOS 18.6, released on July 29, 2025, focuses primarily on bug fixes, security updates, and minor improvements rather than introducing major new features.
Here’s a summary of what’s new based on available information:
1. Photos App Fix:
• Addresses a bug that prevented users from sharing Memory Movies in the Photos app, restoring the ability to create and share personalized video clips from photos and videos.
2. Security Updates:
• Includes over 24 security patches addressing vulnerabilities across various system components, such as:
• WebKit fixes to prevent Safari crashes, memory corruption, and disclosure of sensitive information.
• A patch for Mail Drafts that could load remote content despite the “Load Remote Images” setting being disabled.
• Accessibility issues, such as a passcode being read aloud by VoiceOver.
• Audio parsing vulnerabilities that could lead to memory corruption.
• Apple recommends installing this update to protect against these security risks.
3. App Store Changes for EU Users:
• Introduces a revised interface for installing third-party app marketplaces and apps directly from developers’ websites in the European Union, aligning with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Changes include:
• Detailed disclosure sheets for first-time installs to ensure informed consent.
• Streamlined subsequent installs from known developers, resembling native App Store experiences.
4. System Stability and Performance:
• Focuses on improving overall system stability, reducing crashes, and enhancing performance. While no specific performance metrics are detailed, the update aims to make iPhones run smoother and more reliably, potentially with minor battery life optimizations.
5. No Major User-Facing Features:
• Unlike previous iOS 18 updates (e.g., iOS 18.2 with Apple Intelligence or iOS 18.4 with notification prioritization), iOS 18.6 does not introduce significant new features for most users. It serves as a stabilizing update before the anticipated iOS 26 release in September 2025.
6. Regional Considerations:
• There was speculation about potential Apple Intelligence support in China, but this remains unconfirmed and unlikely in this release.
Compatibility:
• iOS 18.6 is available for iPhone XS and later models, as well as compatible iPads (iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd generation and later, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, iPad 7th generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later).
How to Update:
• Go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install iOS 18.6 over-the-air. Ensure you have at least 5–6 GB of free storage and back up your device before updating.
Why Update?
This update is recommended for all eligible users due to its critical security patches and stability improvements, especially for older devices like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, as it may be their final major iOS 18 update. For more details on security fixes, visit Apple’s security support page: https://support.apple.com/100100
If you’re looking for major new features, iOS 26 (expected in September 2025) will likely bring significant changes, including the Liquid Glass design and enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities.