Apple has rolled out iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, marking the sixth major update to its iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 software since their launch last year. The release arrives a little over two months after iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 became available.
The updates can be installed over the air on supported iPhones and iPads by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update.
According to Apple, iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 deliver a set of important bug fixes and security enhancements. The primary issue addressed in this release is a Photos app bug that could prevent “memory movies” — curated video compilations generated from a user’s photos and videos — from being shared. This fix should restore the ability to share these personalized creations across messaging, email, or social platforms without error.
Beyond the Photos fix, the updates also include compliance-related changes for European Union users. Under the EU’s evolving digital regulations, iPhones and iPads in the region will now display a redesigned interface for installing apps from alternative marketplaces or directly from a developer’s website. This change further expands the ways EU customers can obtain apps outside Apple’s own App Store, reflecting the company’s ongoing adjustments to regional legal requirements.
For users outside the EU, the main benefit of iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 is the stability and security improvements, making it a recommended update for most devices. As always, it’s advisable to back up your iPhone or iPad before installing new software to safeguard your data.
