Apple's next-generation software updates are just around the corner, but the tech giant is not finished with last year's releases. Today, Apple has officially launched iOS 18.6, iPadOS 18.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, watchOS 11.6, tvOS 18.6, and visionOS 2.6. These updates primarily address a critical issue regarding sharing movies from the Photos app, while also patching a comprehensive list of security vulnerabilities.
For users of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, the latest updates resolve a variety of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs). The scope of these vulnerabilities spans essential components, including the Metal graphics API, WebKit, networking protocols, and filesystem permissions. In total, each of these updates addresses over two dozen vulnerabilities, ensuring that users' devices remain secure.
According to Apple's release notes, none of the vulnerabilities patched in these updates are currently being actively exploited. While it is advisable for users to apply the patches as soon as possible, it is worth noting that there are currently no known zero-day vulnerabilities affecting these operating systems.
For users of iOS and iPadOS located in the European Union, the updates introduce a new mechanism that allows for the installation of alternate app stores and apps directly from websites. This change is in compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act, which aims to enhance user choice and competition in the digital marketplace.
Many of the security fixes included in the recent updates are also being made available for older operating systems that Apple continues to support. This is particularly beneficial for users who are unable to upgrade their devices to the latest versions. For example, the iPadOS 17.7.9 update addresses several tablets that were excluded from iPadOS 18, while macOS Ventura 13.7.7 and macOS Sonoma 14.7.7 provide support for older Intel Macs that are no longer included in newer releases.
All of these operating systems are set to be succeeded this fall by new releases, which will be unified under the version number 26. Recently, Apple released the first public betas of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and other updates, allowing users to get a glimpse of the forthcoming features and improvements.
In summary, Apple's latest software updates not only address significant security vulnerabilities but also demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements in the EU. Users are encouraged to update their devices to benefit from these crucial patches and prepare for the upcoming major releases.
