Apple Releases iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 With Major Bug Fixes and EU Changes
Apple has officially released iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, the sixth major updates for the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 operating systems. These updates come more than two months after iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 rolled out to users. If you own an eligible iPhone or iPad, you can get the update by going to:
Settings > General > Software Update.
The new release is packed with important bug fixes and security updates, including a specific fix for an issue in the Photos app that prevented users from sharing memory movies.
What's New in iOS 18.6?
Apple’s official release notes are short, but there are a few key changes worth highlighting:
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Photos App Fix: One major bug in the Photos app has been fixed. Previously, some users were not able to share memory movies — short videos generated automatically from photos. This issue has now been resolved in iOS 18.6.
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Security Updates: As usual, Apple includes behind-the-scenes security patches to protect users from known vulnerabilities. These updates are not always detailed in the release notes but are critical for device safety.
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App Store Changes (EU Only): For users in the European Union, Apple has added a new interface that allows them to install apps from third-party marketplaces or directly from developer websites. This change complies with new EU regulations and opens the door to more flexible app downloads in that region.
How to Install iOS 18.6 or iPadOS 18.6
Installing the update is simple:
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Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
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Tap on General.
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Tap on Software Update.
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If iOS 18.6 or iPadOS 18.6 is available, tap Download and Install.
Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has enough battery life. It’s also a good idea to backup your device before installing any update, just in case.
Why This Update Matters
Even though this isn’t a feature-packed update like iOS 18.0 or 18.2, iOS 18.6 is still important. Bug fixes can seriously improve your device’s performance, reliability, and security.
If you’ve been facing issues with memory movies in the Photos app, this update should resolve the problem. Also, the changes for EU users are a major shift for Apple, which has long maintained strict control over app installations. These updates show how Apple is adapting to regional regulations while preparing for future updates.
What About iOS 26 and Future Updates?
Apple is already looking ahead. Developers are currently testing iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, which are expected to launch this September, likely alongside new iPhone models. These future updates may bring bigger features, interface redesigns, and deeper AI integration — but for now, iOS 18.6 ensures your current device stays smooth and secure.
You can follow the latest iOS beta updates and announcements through Apple's developer portal.
Supported Devices for iOS 18.6
Most devices that supported iOS 18 are eligible for the 18.6 update. This includes:
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iPhone 15 Series
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iPhone 14 Series
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iPhone 13 Series
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iPhone 12 Series
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iPhone 11 Series
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iPhone SE (2nd Gen and later)
Similarly, iPadOS 18.6 works with:
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iPad Pro (all models from 2018 and later)
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iPad Air (3rd Gen and later)
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iPad (6th Gen and later)
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iPad mini (5th Gen and later)
Final Thoughts
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, updating to iOS 18.6 or iPadOS 18.6 is strongly recommended. It may not come with flashy new features, but the stability improvements, bug fixes, and EU compliance updates make it worth your time.
To stay safe and enjoy the best Apple experience, keep your device updated — and get ready for iOS 26 later this year!