Apple has ceased offering new updates for iOS 18 on devices capable of running iOS 26, pushing users towards the latest software. This change coincides with the release of iOS 26.2, which addresses critical security vulnerabilities. While users with iPhone 11 or later can no longer receive iOS 18 updates, those still on iOS 18 could previously access updates by enabling public beta updates. However, this option is now unavailable. Apple’s strategy of transitioning users to newer iOS versions is consistent with past practices, as seen in previous upgrades from iOS 14 to 15 and onwards. Despite some users’ reluctance due to significant design changes in iOS 26, Apple maintains that the option to remain on older versions was always intended as temporary.

