what consequences for users?

Apple has just modified its update servers. Since this Thursday morning, it is no longer possible to return to iOS 18.1.1, the update has been abandoned by Apple, giving way to iOS 18.2. This measure, common at Apple, leads users to install one and the same version of iOS, the latest one. With this practice, Apple also protects its users from potential cyberattacks on older versions of iOS.

What changes for users?

For iPhone owners, this shouldn’t change much. If you have a recent model, chances are it is already up to date. It therefore already works with iOS 18.2 as the operating system and Apple’s decision does not concern you. For everyone else, it will no longer be possible to install iOS 18.1.1 on your device.

Why does Apple do this?

In reality, all smartphone manufacturers use this same practice. When an update hits the market, it replaces the previous one. An infinite cycle, punctuated by updates more important than others. While this practice has many advantages, its timing is also something important.

Apple is not going to stop signing an update the day a new version is released. With iOS 18.2 for example, Apple waited several days before terminating iOS 18.1.1. This wait allows users to backpedal to an older version of iOS in the event of a very significant bug in the new update.

In other words, if iOS 18.2 had been bug-filled and unusable, users could always have reverted to an older version of iOS, which Apple knows is stable and safe. Now, Apple has found that iOS 18.2 has no major bugs and user backpedaling is not necessary. The Apple brand therefore ended the previous update.

In a few weeks, when a new version of iOS is released, it will be the turn of iOS 18.2 to bid us farewell.