Apple Releases iOS 18.6 and More to the Public

July 29, 2025, Apple launched a series of software updates, including iOS 18.6, iPadOS 18.6, macOS 15.6, watchOS 11.6, tvOS 18.6, and visionOS 2.6. These updates focus on bug fixes, security patches, and region-specific enhancements, particularly for EU users, while laying the groundwork for the upcoming iOS 26 release. Below, we provide an updated build number chart reflecting the latest information and detail platform-specific changes.

What’s New in iOS 18.6 and Companion Updates?

The iOS 18.6 update, along with its counterparts, prioritizes stability and security, with no major new features for most users. For EU users, iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 improve the installation of third-party app marketplaces and apps from developers’ websites, aligning with the EU’s Digital Services Act. There’s also unconfirmed speculation about Apple Intelligence support in China, though not explicitly mentioned in US-focused release notes. Other platforms—macOS 15.6, watchOS 11.6, tvOS 18.6, and visionOS 2.6—focus on performance optimization and security, ensuring compatibility across Apple’s ecosystem.

Build Numbers

Platform-Specific Changes

Here’s what’s new or noteworthy for each platform:

• iOS 18.6 (iPhone, Build 22G86): Focuses on bug fixes and security patches. EU users benefit from streamlined third-party app marketplace and web-based app installations. Potential Apple Intelligence support in China remains unconfirmed but is a point of interest. Beta testers report improved battery life and performance.
• iPadOS 18.6 (iPad, Build 22G86): Mirrors iOS 18.6 with bug fixes, security updates, and EU-specific app marketplace enhancements. Ensures compatibility with iOS 18 features like the redesigned Photos app.
• macOS 15.6 (Mac, Build 24G84): Emphasizes performance and security fixes, preparing Macs for the macOS 26 release. No major new features reported.
• watchOS 11.6 (Apple Watch, Build 22U84): Delivers under-the-hood improvements for stability and security, ensuring reliable performance ahead of new Apple Watch features.
• tvOS 18.6 (Apple TV, Build 22M84): Focuses on stability and security, with no significant user-facing changes.
• visionOS 2.6 (Apple Vision Pro, Build 22O785): Prioritizes performance and security, maintaining compatibility with Apple’s ecosystem.

Why These Updates Matter

These updates ensure Apple’s devices remain secure and stable as the company transitions to iOS 26, which will feature the Liquid Glass design and enhanced Apple Intelligence. The EU enhancements reflect Apple’s compliance with regional regulations, while the focus on security patches benefits all users. Developers and beta testers will find these updates provide a solid foundation for testing apps ahead of the fall release cycle.

Should You Update?

Installing these updates is recommended for their security patches and performance improvements. EU users will appreciate the app marketplace updates, while others will benefit from a more stable system. To update, go to Settings > General > Software Update and back up your device first.