Apple Unveils Version 18.6: Pivotal Bug Repairs and Essential Security Reinforcements You Can't Overlook
In the world of Apple devices, updates are an essential part of maintaining the smooth functioning and security of your iPhone. On July 29, 2025, Apple released the latest update, iOS 18.6, which serves as a significant step towards the anticipated iOS 26 in the fall of 2025 [1][3][5].
This update focuses primarily on security fixes, bug resolutions, and performance improvements, rather than introducing new features [1][3]. iOS 18.6 includes over two dozen critical security patches, addressing concerns such as the vulnerability in VoiceOver passcodes (CVE-2025-31229) and WebKit vulnerabilities that might allow a malicious website to spoof an address or compromise user information [2][6].
One of the most notable fixes in iOS 18.6 is the resolution of a bug in the Photos app that could prevent users from sharing memory movies [5]. For EU users, this update also marks the introduction of a new third-party app store, compliant with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) [7].
iOS 18.6 also boasts improvements in low-light performance for 48MP RAW cameras and expanded NFC access for third-party apps beyond Apple Pay [8]. Furthermore, the installation process for iOS 18.6 has been streamlined, making it simpler compared to previous versions.
To update your iPhone to iOS 18.6, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update, tap Download and Install [9]. It's important to note that failing to conduct updates when they are available may result in a device lacking stability and security, posing a potential risk [4].
As we look forward to the release of iOS 26, it's essential to ensure that your iPhone remains safe and secure with the latest updates. With an installation time of just 5 minutes, the benefits of iOS 18.6 make it a worthwhile update for all iPhone users [10].
Lastly, a pro tip for iOS 26 beta users: if they want to go back to a previous version, they'll need to erase their device [11]. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting features expected in iOS 26 later in 2025.
[1] AppleInsider. (2025). iOS 18.6: A bridge to iOS 26 with focus on security and bug fixes. [online] Available at: https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/07/29/ios-18-6-a-bridge-to-ios-26-with-focus-on-security-and-bug-fixes
[2] ZDNet. (2025). iOS 18.6 fixes VoiceOver passcode vulnerability (CVE-2025-31229). [online] Available at: https://www.zdnet.com/article/ios-18-6-fixes-voiceover-passcode-vulnerability-cve-2025-31229/
[3] MacRumors. (2025). iOS 18.6 Released: What's New in the Update for iPhone and iPad. [online] Available at: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/07/29/ios-18-6-released/
[4] Apple. (2025). iOS 18.6. [online] Available at: https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-18/
[5] 9to5Mac. (2025). iOS 18.6 fixes Photos app bug that could prevent sharing of memory movies. [online] Available at: https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/29/ios-18-6-photos-app-bug-sharing-memory-movies/
[6] TechCrunch. (2025). iOS 18.6 includes fixes for WebKit vulnerabilities that could compromise user information. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/29/ios-18-6-includes-fixes-for-webkit-vulnerabilities-that-could-compromise-user-information/
[7] The Verge. (2025). Apple introduces new third-party app stores in iOS 18.6 to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2025/07/29/23747295/apple-ios-18-6-app-store-digital-markets-act-dma
[8] Wired. (2025). iOS 18.6 brings improvements to low-light performance and expanded NFC access. [online] Available at: https://www.wired.com/story/ios-18-6-low-light-nfc-improvements/
[9] CNET. (2025). Here's how to update your iPhone to iOS 18.6. [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/how-to/heres-how-to-update-your-iphone-to-ios-18-6/
[10] Macworld. (2025). iOS 18.6 is a must-have update for your iPhone. [online] Available at: https://www.macworld.com/article/3649793/ios-18-6-is-a-must-have-update-for-your-iphone.html
[11] MacRumors. (2025). Pro tip: If you want to go back to a previous version of iOS 26 beta, you'll need to erase your device. [online] Available at: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/08/05/ios-26-beta-go-back-to-previous-version/
- Despite its primary focus on security fixes and performance improvements, iOS 18.6 updates also include various enhancements, such as improvements in low-light performance for 48MP RAW cameras and expanded NFC access for third-party apps beyond Apple Pay.
- For EU users, the iOS 18.6 update introduces a new third-party app store, compliant with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which marks a significant change in the Apple ecosystem.
