iOS 18.6 Update Is Live, iOS 26 Public Beta Next

Apple is moving closer to wrapping up its iOS 18 series with the release of iOS 18.6 beta, which became available this week to developers and beta testers. This final major revision is expected to be publicly rolled out in early July, shortly before the company transitions focus to iOS 26 with the debut of the iPhone 17 series later this year.

Users enrolled in Apple's beta program can now install the iOS 18.6 beta on compatible devices. The software package, exceeding 7GB in size, suggests extensive under-the-hood refinements. While the update does not introduce visible new features, it is designed to resolve persistent issues and enhance system stability.

The update marks the conclusion of the iOS 18 lifecycle, with incremental patches like 18.6.1 or 18.6.2 potentially arriving over the coming weeks. Apple has already shifted its development resources toward iOS 26, which is currently available in developer preview.

The public beta of iOS 26 is anticipated to launch in July. The new version promises significant interface changes, with Apple calling it the most extensive redesign since iOS 7. Compatibility for iOS 26 begins with iPhone 11 and extends through to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Legacy models including iPhone X, Xs, and Xr will no longer receive software updates, marking the end of support for those devices.

Apple has retained iPhone SE (2nd generation) in the supported devices list for iOS 26. However, to access upcoming AI-enabled features, users will need iPhone 15 Pro or newer hardware, as these features require advanced processing capabilities.