On July 30, 2025, Apple released iOS 18.6, a significant update for compatible iPhones, focused on addressing 24 security vulnerabilities and an issue in the Photos app that prevented sharing video memories. Available for models starting with the iPhone XS, the update, weighing around 1.07 GB, is recommended for all users due to its importance for data protection and system stability. Released over two months after iOS 18.5 in May, it marks the end of the iOS 18 cycle, paving the way for iOS 26, expected in September. Installation can be done via iPhone settings, and Apple emphasizes the urgency of updating to avoid security risks.
The update comes at a strategic time, with Apple finalizing tests for iOS 26, which will bring significant visual and functional changes. iOS 18.6, in turn, focuses on stability, without introducing new features, ensuring devices remain secure before transitioning to the next operating system. Below are the main points addressed by the update:
- Fixes for 24 security vulnerabilities, including issues in WebKit, the Safari base.
- Resolution for a Photos app bug that blocked memory sharing.
- Improved App Store experience for users in the European Union.
- Compatibility with iPhones from 2018 onward, such as XS, XR, and SE (2nd and 3rd generations).
The focus on security and stability reflects Apple’s strategy to maintain device reliability ahead of major launches.
Key security fixes
iOS 18.6 addresses 24 critical vulnerabilities, with a focus on issues in WebKit, the engine powering the Safari browser. These flaws could allow malicious websites to access sensitive information or display fake addresses, deceiving users. About one-third of the fixes relate to this component, essential for safe browsing. Additionally, the update resolves accessibility issues that compromised privacy.
Among the corrected flaws is a vulnerability that allowed the VoiceOver feature to read passwords aloud, exposing user data. Another issue affected privacy indicators, such as the orange and green dots signaling microphone and camera use, which could display incorrectly. These fixes are crucial for protecting personal information in a context of growing cybersecurity concerns.
Apple also addressed issues in other system components, such as email processing, where remote images could load even with the option disabled. These vulnerabilities, listed on the company’s official website, underscore the need for immediate updates for all users.
- Key vulnerabilities fixed:
- WebKit flaws allowing access to sensitive data.
- VoiceOver error reading passwords aloud.
- Irregular functioning of privacy indicators.
- Unintended loading of remote images in emails.
Photos app issue
One of the highlights of iOS 18.6 is the fix for a specific error in the Photos app, which prevented sharing video memories. This feature, which creates automatic montages of photos and videos, is popular among users for reliving special moments. The issue, though not widely reported, was identified by Apple as significant, justifying its inclusion in the official update notes.
The solution ensures users can share memories without interruptions, maintaining the fluidity of one of the iPhone’s most used features. The fix is particularly relevant for those who rely on the Photos Spots app as their primary tool for organizing and sharing media.
Although the issue didn’t affect all users, its resolution reinforces Apple’s commitment to improving the user experience, even in security-focused updates. The company didn’t detail the extent of the problem, but the quick response indicates ongoing monitoring of reported bugs.
App Store changes for the European Union
For users in the European Union, iOS 18.6 brings improvements to the App Store experience, aligned with the bloc’s new regulations. The update introduces a revamped interface for installing alternative app markets or apps directly from developers’ websites. This change complies with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to increase competition in the app market.
The new interface simplifies access to options outside the official App Store while maintaining system security. Apple implemented these changes only in the EU, meaning users in other regions won’t notice differences in this aspect.
- Key App Store changes (EU):
- Simplified interface for installing alternative markets.
- Support for downloading apps directly from websites.
- Compliance with Digital Markets Act rules.
These updates reflect Apple’s effort to adapt its systems to local regulations while keeping the user experience consistent and secure.
Compatibility and installation
iOS 18.6 is compatible with all iPhones released since 2018, including models like iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and the second and third generations of the iPhone SE. The list covers the entire iPhone 16 lineup, including the 16 Pro Max and 16e. However, Apple has signaled that iOS 26, currently in beta testing, will only be compatible with iPhones from the iPhone 11 onward, indicating a change in minimum requirements for the next system.
To install iOS 18.6, users should go to iPhone settings, select “General,” and then “Software Update.” The process, which may take about 15 minutes depending on the connection, requires free space of roughly two to three times the file size (1.07 GB on some devices). Apple recommends using Wi-Fi to avoid excessive mobile data usage.
The update is considered stable, with no significant reports of issues like crashes or network failures, as observed on social media and specialized forums.
Preparation for iOS 26
With iOS 18.6, Apple concludes the iOS 18 update cycle, launched in September 2024. The company is now focused on iOS 26, which promises innovations like the Liquid Glass design, deeper integration with Apple Intelligence, and new features in apps like Messages and Safari. Set for September 2025, iOS 26 will coincide with the iPhone 17 lineup launch.
iOS 18.6 serves as a bridge, ensuring devices are optimized and secure for the transition. The lack of new features reflects Apple’s strategy to focus efforts on innovations for the next system while maintaining the stability of current models.
- What to expect from iOS 26:
- New Liquid Glass design for a refreshed visual experience.
- Advanced integration with Apple Intelligence.
- Expanded features in Messages, such as polls and custom backgrounds.
- Compatibility limited to iPhones from iPhone 11 onward.
Initial user reactions
The reception of iOS 18.6 has been largely positive, with few reports of issues. On social media, users praised the quick installation and lack of noticeable bugs. However, some noted that the update didn’t bring visible changes to daily use, which is expected for a correction-focused version.
There were mentions of persistent issues from previous versions, such as microphone difficulties in apps like LINE and Discord, which weren’t resolved in iOS 18.6. Another reported issue was the slow loading of full-screen videos on YouTube via Safari, a problem that seems to persist since the initial iOS 18 release. Despite this, the overall stability of the update was well-received.
Apple reported no cases of devices becoming bricked after installation, and the recommendation is to use the OTA (Over The Air) update to minimize risks.