Overview
- The iOS 26.2 release patches more than 25 vulnerabilities, including two actively exploited WebKit zero‑days that could allow malicious web content to run code.
- Apple’s parallel iOS 18.7.3 security update is restricted to iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, and previously available betas for newer models were withdrawn.
- Users with iPhone 11 or later now see only iOS 26.2 as an option, with reports confirming blocks on installing iOS 18.7.3 on those devices.
- Analysts estimate roughly half of active iPhones remain on iOS 18, leaving hundreds of millions at heightened risk until they move to iOS 26, a concern echoed in U.S. warnings.
- Apple highlights added protections in iOS 26, including stronger anti‑fingerprinting in Safari, defenses against risky wired connections, and first‑time anti‑scam tools for calls and messages.