Upgrading to iOS 18.6: Apple unveils 25 compelling reasons for iPhone users to upgrade immediately
In the tech world, Apple has released the latest update for its iOS operating system - iOS 18.6. This significant update, weighing approximately 1.07GB on an iPhone 16 Pro Max, was launched on May 12, 2023.
The update primarily focuses on bug fixes and security improvements, addressing over 20 vulnerabilities. One third of these updates are related to WebKit, the underlying technology of Safari, which could potentially expose sensitive user information or display false web address information on malicious websites.
One of the notable security updates in iOS 18.6 addresses a high-severity zero-day flaw (CVE-2025-6558) in Apple's browser engine that could be actively exploited. This underscores the importance of updating promptly.
Another area of improvement is Accessibility. iOS 18.6 resolves a logic issue that could allow a device Passcode to be read aloud by VoiceOver, and another issue where privacy indicators for microphone or camera access might not display correctly.
The update also fixes a problem with the Photos app, where memory movies could not be shared.
For more detailed information about the specific bug fixes and security updates, Apple will provide further details in due course.
iOS 18.6 is compatible with all iPhones from 2018 onwards, including the iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone XR, and all subsequent models, as well as the iPhone SE in both its second- and third-generation models, and all members of the iPhone 16 series up to iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e.
It is recommended that users update to iOS 18.6 due to the number of security updates and fixes it brings. To update, simply open the Settings app, choose General, then Software Update, click on Download and Install.
Looking ahead, the next likely update is iOS 26, scheduled for September, unless there are issues arising from this release that require immediate attention. However, it's important to note that iOS 26, currently in public beta, will only be compatible with iPhone 11 series and later when it goes on general release in September.
[1] Source: Apple Security Updates [2] Source: ZDNet [3] Source: 9to5Mac
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This article was originally published on forbes.com. It's worth mentioning that the last iOS update was released more than 11 weeks before iOS 18.6.
- Amidst the tech world's buzz, users of smartphones like iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone XR, and subsequent models, as well as iPhone SE's second and third generations, iPhone 16 series up to iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e, are advised to update to iOS 18.6 due to its numerous security updates and fixes, including a zero-day flaw in Apple's browser engine.
- This latest iOS update, iOS 18.6, not only focuses on bug fixes and security improvements but also addresses vulnerabilities related to WebKit, the underlying technology of Safari, and Accessibility issues, making it crucial for gadget enthusiasts to consider updating their devices promptly.
