It has been officially announced that Apple plans to launch iOS 18 to users next week, September 16th. This update is packed with numerous new additions, yet some individuals might choose to delay their installation to sidestep glitches and potential conflicts with key applications. Consequently, Apple has decided to permit users to remain on iOS 17 while they receive security fixes.
In addition to launching iOS 18.0 RC (Release Candidate) for general availability on Monday, the company introduced a new iOS 17.7 RC release to both developers and public beta testers. This update appears to include no new functionalities, however, it provides security updates and fixes for iOS 17.
It’s likely that Apple will release iOS 17.7 right at the same time as iOS 18.0 the following week. Users will be able to find both updates in the iPhone and iPad Settings app, and they’ll have the choice to stick with iOS 17, which includes the latest security updates, or switch over to iOS 18 for access to new functionalities. It’s important to mention that Apple has previously offered users a similar choice.
In the previous year, Apple also persisted in issuing security updates for iOS 16 even after iOS 17 had been launched. Nonetheless, at a certain stage, these updates became available only to devices that were not upgradable to iOS 17. Given that iOS 18 is compatible with all iPhones that can run iOS 17, it’s probable that Apple will cease providing updates for iOS 17 in the coming months.
Once more, the ability to select your preferred OS version for stability prevents issues, since there are individuals who depend on applications that might not yet work seamlessly with iOS 18.
In addition to iOS 18, Apple is set to launch iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, tvOS 18, visionOS 2, and macOS Sequoia next week.
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