Apple has officially released the third public beta versions of iOS 18.6, iPadOS 18.6, and macOS Sequoia 15.6, just one day after these builds were rolled out to developers. The company is also pushing updates to watchOS 11.6, continuing its testing cycle across platforms as it preps for stable releases later this year.
Let’s break down what this update means for Apple users and what changes (if any) you should expect.
How to Download the Public Betas
If you’re a public beta tester, here’s how you can access the latest updates:
✅ iOS 18.6 & iPadOS 18.6
- Make sure your device is enrolled in Apple’s Beta Software Program: beta.apple.com
- On your iPhone or iPad, go to:
Settings > General > Software Update - The iOS 18.6 Public Beta 3 will appear for download.
macOS Sequoia 15.6
- On a Mac enrolled in the beta program:
System Settings > General > Software Update - Install macOS Sequoia 15.6 Public Beta 3 from there.
watchOS 11.6
You’ll need to install the update through the Watch app on a paired iPhone, but only if your device is registered for beta testing.
What’s New in Beta 3?
Surprisingly, no major front-facing features have been discovered in these betas as of now. But here’s what we know so far:
- iOS 18.6 (Europe-Focused Changes):
Apple is likely making App Store changes in the EU, possibly to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These could involve tweaks to alternative app stores or payment systems. - Bug Fixes & Performance Improvements:
As expected with minor point updates, these builds are designed to enhance stability, patch bugs, and improve overall performance across Apple devices. - macOS Sequoia 15.6:
No new features have been reported. Most likely, this update is about behind-the-scenes improvements and system refinements.
What About iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe?
While public testers are getting their hands on iOS 18.6 and macOS Sequoia 15.6, Apple is simultaneously privately testing iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe with developers. These are part of Apple’s next major OS cycle, likely to be released in Fall 2025.
Public betas of iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe are expected in the coming weeks, probably after a few more dev builds.
A Word of Caution
While public betas are more stable than developer versions, they are still not recommended for primary devices. Battery drain, app crashes, and unexpected bugs are common in beta releases.
Conclusion
Apple continues its rapid software testing across devices, focusing on compliance, stability, and laying the groundwork for bigger updates ahead. iOS 18.6 and macOS Sequoia 15.6 may not bring visible changes, but they are crucial steps in ensuring Apple’s ecosystem remains optimized and legally compliant — especially in regions like the European Union.
Stay tuned, as the next round of public betas (iOS 26, macOS Tahoe) will likely introduce more user-facing features.
Subhash Kumar
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