Apple has just released iOS 18.6 on July 29, 2025, bringing a range of important updates that every iPhone user should know about. While it may not have the flashy new features expected in the upcoming iOS 26, this update focuses on enhancing stability, fixing persistent bugs, improving overall performance, and adding region-specific improvements. iOS 18.6 is designed to keep your device running smoothly and securely, making it a vital upgrade for all iPhone users. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new in this release
Apple’s iOS 18.6 focuses Photos App Gets a Memory Movie Fix
If you’ve ever tried sharing a memory movie in the Photos app only to hit a dead end, you’re not alone. This was a frustrating bug for many, stopping users from sharing those auto-generated slideshows of their favorite moments. iOS 18.6 swoops in to save the day, restoring the ability to share memory movies seamlessly. Whether it’s a birthday recap or a vacation montage, you can now send those clips to friends and family without a hitch.
Keyboard Lag and Overheating? Sorted.
Nothing kills the vibe like a laggy keyboard or a phone that feels like it’s about to overheat. iOS 18.6 tackles these issues head-on with performance optimizations. Typing is now snappier, and the update reduces device overheating, especially during heavy tasks like gaming or streaming. These behind-the-scenes tweaks make your iPhone feel more responsive and reliable for everyday use.
Battery Life Boost for Longer Usage
Battery drain has been a common complaint in past iOS versions, but iOS 18.6 brings noticeable improvements. Apple has fine-tuned power management, particularly for resource-intensive apps, so your iPhone lasts longer during gaming, video calls, or multitasking. If you’ve been plugging in more often than you’d like, this update might give you some extra juice.
Security Updates You Can’t Ignore
iOS 18.6 update isn’t just about fixing bugs—it’s a security powerhouse. Apple has packed in over 20 security patches to protect your iPhone from potential threats. Here’s the lowdown:
WebKit and VoiceOver Vulnerabilities Patched
This update addresses critical security flaws, including issues in WebKit (the engine behind Safari) that could lead to crashes or data leaks. Another fix tackles a VoiceOver bug where passcodes could be read aloud, a privacy concern for accessibility users. While no known exploits have been reported, these patches are reason enough to update ASAP to keep your data safe.
Mail App Privacy Fix
Ever turned off “Load Remote Images” in the Mail app to protect your privacy, only to find it wasn’t working as expected? iOS 18.6 fixes this, ensuring remote content stays blocked unless you want it loaded. It’s a small but important tweak for keeping your email experience secure.
Region-Specific Updates for EU Users
For iPhone users in the European Union, iOS 18.6 brings some exclusive changes driven by the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Apple is opening up its ecosystem, and here’s how it affects you:
Sideloading and Alternative App Stores
EU users can now download apps directly from developers’ websites or third-party app stores with fewer restrictions. iOS 18.6 introduces a streamlined interface for these alternative app marketplaces, making it easier to explore new apps outside Apple’s App Store. This is a big win for flexibility and choice, though it’s exclusive to the EU for now.
New CarPlay Splash Screen
If you use CarPlay, you’ll notice a refreshed splash screen when connecting your iPhone after updating to iOS 18.6. It’s a small visual upgrade, but it makes the onboarding process smoother and more polished for drivers.
Known Issues and Workarounds
No update is perfect, and iOS 18.6 has one notable hiccup. Some users have reported that health data becomes inaccessible when reaching the “slide to power off” screen on devices without a passcode. The workaround? Set a passcode or reboot your device to restore access. Apple is likely working on a fix for this in a future update, so stay tuned.
Why You Should Update to iOS 18.6
With its focus on stability, security, and performance, iOS 18.6 is a no-brainer for most iPhone users. The bug fixes—especially for the Photos app—and the extensive security patches make it a must-install to keep your device running smoothly and safely. EU users get the added perk of more app installation options, while everyone benefits from better battery life and reduced overheating.
To update, head to Settings > General > Software Update, and make sure your device has at least 50% battery or is plugged in. The build number for this release is 22G86, and it’s compatible with iPhone XS and newer models.
What’s Missing and What’s Next?
While iOS 18.6 nails the basics, it’s light on new features, which might disappoint those expecting big changes. Features like Apple Digital Key 4.0 and Apple Intelligence (still unavailable in China) are delayed until iOS 26, expected in September 2025. This update feels like a bridge to the next big release, focusing on stability over innovation.
Looking ahead, iOS 18.6 might be the final major update in the iOS 18 cycle, with minor patches like iOS 18.6.1 possibly on the way for lingering bugs. If you’re itching for new AI-powered features or major UI changes, iOS 26 is where the action will be.
Final Thoughts
iOS 18.6 update is a practical that prioritizes what matters most: a stable, secure, and efficient iPhone experience. The Photos app fix, performance boosts, and security patches make it worth installing, especially if you’ve been dealing with bugs or battery issues. EU users get some cool new app options, and the CarPlay tweak adds a touch of polish. While it’s not a game-changer, it’s a solid step forward. So, grab your iPhone, head to Settings, and update to iOS 18.6 today—your device will thank you
