Apple Rolls Out iOS 18.6 with Security Fixes and EU App Store Changes

Apple has officially pushed iOS 18.6 to all supported iPhones, wrapping up nearly six weeks of beta testing. The update delivers a round of security patches and bug fixes, along with regulatory adjustments targeted at European Union users.

How to Get iOS 18.6

Users with iPhones running iOS 18 can grab the update by going to:

1. Settings → General → Software Update.
2. Once it appears, tap Download & Install.

The update carries build number 22G86 and is rolling out in waves, so it may not show up on all devices right away.

What’s New in iOS 18.6?

Apple’s release notes call out several changes:

• A patch for a Photos bug that previously blocked some memory movies from being shared.
• General stability improvements and security fixes across the system.

Beyond the usual maintenance, the update introduces important updates for users in the EU. iOS 18.6 tweaks how apps can be installed directly from developer websites:

• A new process now allows installation of third-party app marketplaces from outside the App Store.
• Apple has also revised the direct-from-developer app installation flow.

These adjustments are part of Apple’s response to the Digital Markets Act, which is forcing the company to open parts of its platform to alternative distribution methods in the EU.

For those tracking security updates, Apple has published a detailed changelog on its support site.

Why This Release Matters

iOS 18.6 is more than just routine maintenance. It’s part of Apple’s broader shift in how it handles compliance with EU regulations, with meaningful changes to how apps are discovered and installed. For users outside the EU, the update still brings important security protections and small quality-of-life tweaks.

Already installed iOS 18.6 and noticed anything different? Drop your observations in the comments.