Apple introduced iOS 18.6 and macOS Sequoia 15.6 on Tuesday with the goal of clearing out bugs. iPadOS 18.6, watchOS 11.6, tvOS 18.6 and visionOS 2.6 are also available.
While these patches are about fixing problems rather than adding features, they are still very much worth installing.
The wait is over for iOS 18.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6 and more
iOS 18.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, iPadOS 18.6 and the other new versions that launched Tuesday have been in beta testing for weeks. During that time, it was clear that their focus is clearing out remaining small problems in the operating systems, not adding functionality.
That was confirmed when the iOS 18.6 release candidate introduced a week ago revealed that Apple’s official description of the new version says, ”This update provides important bug fixes and security updates, and fixes an issue in Photos that could prevent memory movies from being shared.” New features would undoubtedly be mentioned here … if there were any.
Even so, a phrase in that description serves as a reminder why you should not ignore Apple’s software upgrades: “security updates.” The only way to keep your iPhone, Mac, etc., up to date with security patches and safe from hackers is to install the latest OS versions when they become available.
No features because iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26
There’s no doubt why there are no new features in Tuesday’s updates. Apple used WWDC25 in June to give the world its first look at iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26, and all the new functionality goes to them.
Still, Cupertino doesn’t unveil glitzy new versions, then declare the previous ones obsolete and stop working on them. And even though iOS 18.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, iPadOS 18.6, and so on come just a couple of months before their replacement versions reach users, there’s still likely to be iOS 18.7, macOS Sequoia 15.7 and more released in early autumn.
How to patch your iPhone, Mac, iPad, etc.
iPhone and iPad users can install the new iOS and iPadOS versions directly by opening the Settings app and going to General > Software Update. Alternatively, update devices by connecting them to a Mac (or to a PC running iTunes).
To download the macOS Sequoia update, go to Apple menu > About This Mac. Then click Software Update. Alternatively, you can install the new version from the App Store. (Note: At the time of this writing, Apple had not yet updated the version of macOS in the App Store. But it should happen soon.)
The watchOS update can be installed directly onto an Apple Watch, as long as the wearable is connected to Wi-Fi. From the Settings app, navigate to General > Software Update. Or install it from an iPhone by opening the Apple Watch app and going to My Watch > General > Software Update.
To get the tvOS update, start by navigating to the Settings app on Apple TV. Then click through to System, then click on Software Updates, then click on Update Software.
And Vision Pro users might need the Cult of Mac guide on how to update visionOS.
