Many iPhone users are currently facing two different update options: iOS 18.7 and iOS 26. What is the difference between these two versions, and which one makes sense to install? Here are the details.
iOS 26 is a major annual update with completely new features and design changes. It includes the “Liquid Glass” interface, broader Apple Intelligence integration, live translation, and significant innovations in core apps. However, it requires a rather large installation of a few GB.
iOS 18.7, on the other hand, is a maintenance-focused version that keeps the current iOS 18 version up-to-date with security patches and bug fixes. It is released mainly for users who cannot or do not want to switch to iOS 26 for now.
Brief overview of the main differences between iOS 18.7 and iOS 26
Scope: iOS 26 offers profound changes in the interface, artificial intelligence, and apps. iOS 18.7 focuses on security and stability.
Size: iOS 26 is a few GB, while iOS 18.7 is much smaller.
Timing: iOS 26 starts the new annual cycle. iOS 18.7 is likely one of the last updates in the iOS 18 series.
| Feature / Area | iOS 18.7 | iOS 26 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose / Focus | Mainly security fixes, stability improvements. No new features or major design changes. | Major UI overhaul (“Liquid Glass”), new features (Apple Intelligence, live translation, UI changes), and more personalization. |
| Design / Appearance | Remains within the current iOS 18 style; does not bring significant visual or animation changes. | New visual language called “Liquid Glass”; transparency, glass-like effects, rounded edges, reflective / transparent layers in icons and UI elements. |
| Compatibility / Supported Devices | Supports older devices; provides “freshness” for models in the iOS 18 line. | Supports iPhone 11 and later models; some older models (e.g., XR, XS, XS Max) will not receive iOS 26. |
| Update Size & Risks | Smaller download size; less risk (fewer known/unknown issues with the new version). | Larger update; may contain bugs in initial versions; some new changes may require learning and adaptation. |
| New Features | Mostly security patches, stability, and bug fixes. Limited new app functionalities or radical UX changes. | Live Translation, Visual Intelligence, improved Camera & Photos, new features in Messages (such as polls for group chats), new themes / control center layouts, etc. |
| When to Prefer Which? | If your device does not support iOS 26 or you do not want to deal with new UI / features, 18.7 is more reasonable. Focus on continuity, stability, and security. | For those wanting a new look, Apple’s new smart features, and overall user experience refresh, iOS 26 is more attractive. If your device is powerful (new models), has sufficient storage, and you are willing to learn the new changes, it can be preferred. |
Which one should you install?
If iOS 26 is offered: Install if you want the new design and features. But keep in mind that the download is large, and the installation may take a long time.
If only iOS 18.7 appears: Your device may not support the large update or it may be blocked by corporate policies. In this case, installing 18.7 to receive security updates makes sense.
For those seeking the highest stability: Installing 18.7 this week and switching to iOS 26 after a few weeks can also be a reasonable choice. This way, you won’t be affected by security vulnerabilities.
How can you check which update you have received?
Follow these steps: Settings > General > Software Update:
If iOS 26 appears: Your device is compatible with the major update.
If iOS 18.7 appears: You can only install security and bug fixes.
Some users may see a banner showing the iOS 26 update option while also seeing the option to stay on 18.7 on the same screen.
Reasons for “iOS 18.7 vs iOS 26” searches
Two options at the same time: Apple releases a major new update while also providing a final point update for the older version. Users are curious about which one to choose.
Device compatibility: Some iPhones can receive iOS 26, others remain on the iOS 18 series. Users check which group their device falls into.
Risk and reward balance: Power users weigh whether the bugs or storage requirements of the new features are worth it in the first days.
Enterprise devices: Business phones are sometimes kept on older versions due to app compatibility, increasing the number of calls.
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