Apple has released iOS 18.7.7 for devices not running the newer iOS 26. It’s strictly a maintenance update with no new features, but if your device is on iOS 18, you’ll want to grab it quickly. Here’s why.
Darksword fighting
Most notably, this release adds security protections against the exploit toolkit “DarkSword”, which can potentially be used to compromise your device through multiple iOS vulnerabilities. The details get technical, but in short: you don’t want that.
Apple’s change of heart
Perhaps the bigger news is that Apple has reversed a recent decision. Following the release of iOS 26, Apple stopped issuing security updates for iOS 18 on devices capable of running iOS 26 – essentially forcing users to upgrade to get security fixes. That didn’t go down well with users who dislike the controversial liquid glass redesign and would prefer to stay put.
With iOS 18.7.7, that’s no longer the case. If your device can run iOS 26 but you’d rather not, you can now grab the security fixes without making the jump – staying both safe and liquid-glass-free.
How to update
To install the update, open Settings > General > Software Update and follow the prompts to download and restart your iPhone. If you have automatic updates enabled, it may update on its own when the conditions are right – but it’s quicker to trigger the update yourself.