Apple is reportedly continuing development on iOS 18 with the upcoming iOS 18.6 update, despite the recent buzz surrounding iOS 26. A recent leak suggests that the first beta version of iOS 18.6 is imminent.
While iOS 26 has captured the attention of the Apple community following its beta release last week at WWDC, it appears Apple has further plans for its predecessor. According to a private X account, which has a history of accurately reporting on Apple software, the initial iOS 18.6 beta is expected to arrive soon. The account revealed the build number for the iOS 18.6 beta 1: 22G5054d.
Although a specific release date was not provided, the leaker’s track record suggests the beta could be released any day now. The features included in the update remain unknown; however, bug fixes and performance enhancements are anticipated. There is also speculation that iOS 18.6 could introduce Apple Intelligence support to China. Previous reports indicated that trade tensions between the US and China had delayed this rollout. It’s possible that Apple has resolved any regulatory hurdles it faced.
Of course, Apple could also include surprise features in the update. However, large-scale changes are unlikely. Software updates released late in an operating system’s lifecycle typically prioritize stability and minor improvements. Users currently running iOS 18.5 will have the option to install the iOS 18.6 beta or upgrade directly to iOS 26 when the beta becomes available.
This news arrives as Apple focuses on its next major operating system, iOS 26, but demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting its existing user base with continued improvements and refinements.
The iOS 18.6 update could potentially address lingering issues and optimize performance for users who choose to remain on the iOS 18 platform. The possibility of bringing Apple Intelligence features to China also highlights Apple’s ongoing efforts to expand its services and technologies to global markets, despite facing regulatory and geopolitical challenges.
