Apple has officially released iOS 18.6 for all compatible iPhone models. While the spotlight is currently on iOS 26 beta, iOS 18.6 is a stable release packed with important bug fixes, security patches, and minor enhancements.
This post includes direct download links for iOS 18.6 IPSW files, along with iPadOS 18.6 IPSW files so you can manually restore or update your device using Finder or iTunes.
How to Update to iOS 18.6 or iPadOS 18.6
You can update over-the-air (OTA) by navigating to: Settings > General > Software Update
If the update doesn’t appear right away, don’t worry, Apple’s server rollout can take a few hours to reach all users.
What’s New in iOS 18.6 (22G86)
According to Apple’s release notes, iOS 18.6 includes:
- Critical security updates
- A fix for a Photos issue that prevented memory movies from being shared
- Behind-the-scenes improvements for stability and performance
In the European Union, users will also notice changes to how third-party app marketplaces and apps from developer websites are installed. This is part of Apple’s ongoing compliance with EU digital market regulations.
Download iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 IPSW Files
You can download the appropriate IPSW file for your device below. Use these files to manually restore your iPhone using a Mac (Finder) or PC (iTunes).
Important Notes Before Installing IPSW Manually
- Always back up your device via iCloud or Finder before restoring.
- Make sure you are downloading the correct IPSW file for your iPhone model.
- IPSW restores erase your device unless you use update mode with Option + Click (Mac) or Shift + Click (Windows).
Comments