Apple released the release candidate (RC) for iOS 18.6 simultaneously to developers and public beta users. The release of the RC version indicates that the software is very close to public availability. Along with iOS 18.6, iPadOS 18.6, macOS 15.6, tvOS 18.6, watchOS 11.6, HomePod 18.6, and developer-only visionOS 2.6 have also reached the RC stage.

Apple unveils iOS 18.6 RC version

The new RC versions follow beta 3, which was released a week ago. Apple’s rapid progress in its release schedule suggests that the official release of iOS 18.6 is imminent. Previously, Apple had been postponing the public beta release for a day after developer releases, but now it has provided simultaneous RC access to both user groups. This approach suggests the company could release the final version of the software by Monday, July 28th.

iOS 18.6 appears to contain no significant new features. It is known that the release includes some changes to third-party app stores and direct app download options, in accordance with European Union regulations.

However, other than this, no other changes that will directly impact users have been identified so far. Apple is believed to be focusing primarily on stability and performance improvements in this release.

While preparations for iOS 26 and other major releases, expected to be released in the fall, continue, iOS 18.6 appears to be more of an interim update. Despite this, Apple aims to synchronously improve the user experience across all its major platforms by simultaneously releasing RC versions. The official release of iOS 18.6 is expected to be released for all users very soon.