Should I Update to iOS 18.6? Key Features and User Insights

Apple has recently rolled out the iOS 18.6 update, which is possibly the last update for iOS 18 before the release of iOS 26 this September.

I have found that the iOS 18.6 update offers many security updates, important bug fixes, and a standout EU-specific feature for third-party app installation. However, many iPhone users might be confused like me about whether should I update to iOS 18.6. Therefore, let's make things easy for all.

Read on to learn what performance improvements and user experiences you will get with the iOS 18.6 update. In addition, I will also talk about UPDF, the best PDF editor on iOS to manage day-to-day document activities.

Part 1. Introduction of iOS 18.6

Apple iOS 18.6 update focuses on strengthening device security and user privacy, rather than introducing new features.

Security Patches

The update patches over two dozen security vulnerabilities. Eight of these security fixes are related to WebKit, which should crash Safari or disclose sensitive user information. Other than that, it also fixes Mail Drafts privacy issues and accessibility problems involving VoiceOver reading passcodes aloud.

Feature Fix

One big feature fix is an issue with Photos that could prevent memory movies from being shared. Now, the memory movie sharing is seamless.

EU-Specific App Installation Policy Change

The standout aspect of the 18.6 iOS update is its EU-specific update. In compliance with the Digital Markets Act, Apple now allows iPhone users in the European Union to install apps not only from the App Store but also from third-party app stores or directly from developer websites.

The iOS 18.6 new features for the EU introduce a new two-step disclosure process for installing apps from the web. This eases access to alternative marketplaces and also maintains security dialogs.

Overall, Apple iOS 18.6 update brings important stability and security enhancements for all users, and a change in app installation policy for its EU-based users. The update is available for all iPhone models, ranging from the iPhone XS to the latest iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Part 2. Performance Improvements & User Experiences

Since the iOS 18.6 update was released almost two weeks ago, many iPhone users have now shared their experiences regarding its performance. The consensus is generally positive, as many users report smoother and more stable system performance.

One of the users reported on Reddit that:

“I feel 18.5 suited my phone pretty badly, overheated regularly, battery took a step down and I noticed slower performance in general.

However, 18.6 feels pretty damn good so far. I have not felt the phone warm in my hand and battery seems to be draining a slower than it used to. I’d say go ahead, pretty polished update, which makes sense being one of the final builds for ios 18.”

Another user also reported “No more overheating and improved battery”.

If I summarize the performance improvements users have mentioned, they would be:

• Smoother and stable system performance with fewer freezes and stutters
• Reduced overheating
• Improved battery life
• Fixes for other minor bugs

In short, the iOS 18.6 update focuses on a stable experience before Apple releases the much-awaited iOS 26 update.

Part 3. iOS 18.6 Should I Update?

Now, let's come back to the main question: iOS 18.6 should I update? Honestly, I couldn't find any single reason not to update to iOS 18.6. There are no major UI changes that could scare us or any complaints of malfunctions after the update.

In contrast, we are getting important security and bug fixes, plus the option to download apps outside of the App Store (for EU users).

Despite all the pros of the Apple iOS 18.6 update, what made me decide to update was users' claims that it lowers overheating and battery draining. That's why I have finally updated my iPhone to iOS 18.6, and I would recommend my readers to get the update without any worries.

Part 4. Recommendations After Updating

After updating your iPhone to Apple iOS 18.6, consider the following recommendations to ensure a smooth experience:

• Update Apps: Go to the App Store and check for any available updates for third-party applications.
• Check for Carrier Updates: Go to Settings > General > About, and see if your carrier has released any network improvements.
• Monitor Battery: Observe battery performance for the first few days. If you notice any anomalies, perform a full charge followed by a complete discharge to recalibrate.
• Restart Your Device Regularly: Restart your iPhone once a week to refresh system resources and improve performance.
• Review Privacy Settings: Updating iOS can reset or introduce new privacy settings. Take a moment to review your app permissions and privacy preferences in Settings to maintain control over your data.

Part 5. Bonus Tip: Use UPDF for iOS to Manage PDFs

Updating iOS is one thing, but your iPhone must also have the best apps for enhanced productivity. That one app I want to introduce is UPDF.

UPDF for iOS is an AI-powered PDF editor, annotator, and reader app. It provides an all-in-one app to manage PDF-related activities. You can edit, annotate, organize, convert, sign, merge, and do a lot more with PDFs.

Although UPDF is a feature-packed iOS app, let me highlight its three core features:

Scan to PDF

UPDF helps you smartly scan documents using your camera. Its scan-to-PDF feature requires you to simply place your phone's camera over the document and wait for UPDF to auto-capture and crop the document. Afterward, you can further customize the scan if you want and then generate a ready-to-use PDF instantly.

Annotate PDF

UPDF 2.0 provides 13+ PDF annotation tools. You can select highlight, underline, draw, strikethrough, squiggly line, and other markup options. You can also add comment boxes, stickers, stamps, and signs.

UPDF AI Assistant

If you are reading a lengthy PDF document, UPDF AI assistant acts as your reading companion. It provides AI-backed summaries, translations, and explanations of PDF content. You can also use its chat mode to chat about PDF or any other topic in natural language.

Feel impressed? Install UPDF for iOS from the App Store and test its top-notch features yourself.

You can also learn more about UPDF by watching this video:

Conclusion

Apple iOS 18.6 update is finally turning iOS 18 into a mature OS version that delivers smoother performance and stability, which is what we expect from the potentially last iOS 18 update. So, don't give second thoughts on "should I update iOS 18.6" and get it installed right away. On top of that, also get yourself UPDF because it's your AI-backed companion in managing PDFs directly from your iPhone.