Apple is preparing to roll out iOS 18.7 in September, offering one final round of updates for older iPhones just as iOS 26 gets ready for its grand debut.
TLDR:
- iOS 18.7 is coming in September and will focus on security and performance for older devices
- The update will be the last official iOS version for iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR
- iOS 26 will launch around mid-September and support only iPhone 11 and newer models
- Parental controls, nudity filters, and other advanced features are expected with iOS 26
What Happened?
Apple is expected to release iOS 18.7 in early to mid-September, targeting older iPhones with a focus on security patches and system stability. At the same time, the company is finalizing preparations for iOS 26, which will only support iPhones from the iPhone 11 series and later. This move signals the end of support for models like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR.
iOS 18.7: One Last Ride for Older iPhones
For owners of aging devices such as the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, iOS 18.7 will be the last official update. These models are no longer eligible for the upcoming iOS 26, effectively marking iOS 18.7 as their final software send-off.
- The update is not expected to introduce new features
- Instead, it will deliver critical security fixes
- It aims to extend the usability and safety of unsupported iPhones a little longer
According to reports from sources like MacRumors, Apple’s internal logs show activity around iOS 18.7, indicating the update is ready for release. Apple is prioritizing security to ensure that even legacy users stay protected while it shifts focus to newer hardware and software.
iOS 26 compatible devices👀
— AppleKoded (@AppleKoded) September 1, 2025
Will you be installing iOS 26? pic.twitter.com/cSzusX4xUC
iOS 26: New Features and Device Compatibility
iOS 26 is currently wrapping up its beta testing phase and will launch to the public shortly after Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on September 9. The major update is compatible only with iPhone 11 and later, aligning with Apple’s trend of gradually retiring older devices.
Key updates expected in iOS 26 include:
- New parental controls that allow guardians to manage who contacts their kids
- Screen time management tools
- Nudity detection and blurring in messaging and third-party apps to protect minors
Apple has consistently followed a mid-September release schedule for iOS:
- iOS 18: September 16, 2024
- iOS 17: September 18, 2023
- iOS 16: September 12, 2022
Given this timeline, iOS 26 is expected around September 16, 2025.
Apple’s September 9 Event: iPhone 17 Series Incoming
In tandem with the iOS 26 rollout, Apple will also unveil its new iPhone 17 lineup. This includes:
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
Notably, reports suggest Apple will retire the “Plus” model and introduce the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to be a sleeker and ultra-slim alternative in the new lineup.
What TechKV Thinks?
I think Apple is pulling off a pretty balanced move here. On one side, it’s giving older iPhone users one final patch with iOS 18.7, which is a solid way to wrap things up for those devices. No fancy features, just what matters: security and stability. On the other hand, iOS 26 looks promising with thoughtful features like screen time control and content filters. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your iPhone, this is the moment. The gap between older and newer iOS versions is getting wider, and Apple clearly wants users to move forward.
