iOS 18.6 release candidate is out, but there isn’t much to see

Apple has updated the iOS 18.6 beta to the release candidate. With all the new features and attention on iOS 26, there isn’t a lot to this one. The final release could come any time within the next week.

There are some changes specifically for the EU, related to Apple’s new policies and interface for installing third-party app stores or app directly from the web. For everyone else, expect just security updates and a minor bug or two fixed.

EU App Store changes

Apple is rolling out new App Store guidelines and a new user experience for those in the EU, in an attempt to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act. Critics say Apple’s new terms are intentionally confusing, do not comply with EU law, and punish developers even more than before should they choose to avoid the App Store and distribute their apps themselves.

iOS 18.6 includes a new user experience when customers attempt to install an alternative app marketplace or install apps directly from the web. This only applies to customers in the EU.

iOS 18.6: How to install the public beta

If you want to be among the first to test iOS 18.6, you can sign up for the public beta test.

1. Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
2. Log in to the Beta Software Program.
3. Click Enroll your iOS device.
4. Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update.
5. In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta.

It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update.

iOS 18.6: How to install the developer beta

You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:

1. Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
2. Open the app.
3. Tap on Account.
4. Sign in using your usual Apple ID.

Registered developers can choose to get the Public Beta instead by selecting iOS Public Beta in the Software Update screen. It may take a little time after registering as a developer for the option to appear in Software Updates.

We expect iOS 18.6 to arrive in July. Find out everything you need to know about iOS 18 in our iOS 18 superguide.