Since WWDC 2025 in early June, the tech group has had its consideration fastened on iOS 26. It is sensible: Like all main software program updates, the brand new OS will ship with large new options and modifications, however this 12 months’s modifications are greater than most, together with Apple’s “Liquid Glass” redesign. However regardless of the hoopla, iOS 26 is not the following replace coming to your iPhone (except you set up the beta, after all).
However at the same time as Apple finalizes its large fall improve, it’s subsequently engaged on a a lot smaller replace that you’re going to doubtless see earlier than iOS 26 hits your machine: iOS 18.6.
In contrast to iOS 26, iOS 18.6 won’t change a lot about your total iPhone expertise. That is to be anticipated: That is the sixth main replace to iOS 18, so there aren’t many options left for Apple so as to add. In reality, the one new characteristic to ship with iOS 18.6 applies solely to customers within the EU. These customers will discover an up to date expertise when downloading apps and app marketplaces from the net. (EU regulation compelled Apple to permit for this app “sideloading” course of, whereas these of us outdoors Europe are nonetheless locked in to Apple’s App Retailer.)
As an alternative of massive swings, iOS 18.6 appears to be all about stability. Apple seems to be centered on squashing any current bugs and glitches that have not been addressed since iOS 18.5, the present model of the iPhone’s software program.
The way to strive iOS 18.6 early
As of this piece, iOS 18.6 is on its third beta. As such, it isn’t clear when Apple plans to formally launch the replace, however it’ll doubtless arrive earlier than the autumn, when the corporate plans to ship iOS 26 to most people.
What do you suppose up to now?
You possibly can check out iOS 18.6 proper now, if you wish to, although remember you in all probability will not discover something new. Should you enroll your Apple Account with Apple’s beta program, you may see the iOS 18.6 beta in Settings > Normal > Software program Replace > Beta Updates. Simply remember that, since it is a beta, you run the chance the software program will include bugs and glitches—even when this replace is supposed to squash them.
The true beta to deal with, after all, is iOS 26. Apple is anticipated to launch the primary public beta for this replace subsequent week, and after they do, you may see this replace alongside the iOS 18.6 beta.
