iOS 18.6 is here: Apple must simplify sideloading in the EU
The latest update removes obstacles to downloading iPhone apps outside the official App Store. There are important patches for all Apple systems.
(Image: nikkimeel/Shutterstock.com)
Apple's big update series: this evening, the manufacturer released iOS and iPadOS in the new version 18.6 as well as macOS 15.6 Sequoia, watchOS 11.6, tvOS 18.6 and visionOS 2.6. At the same time, iPadOS 17.7.9 is also available for download for certain older iPad model series that can no longer be updated to iPadOS 18. iOS 17 will no longer receive updates. Mac users who have not yet upgraded to macOS 15 will receive macOS 14.7.7 Sonoma or macOS 13.7.7 Ventura.
Fewer hurdles for other app marketplaces
The new versions contain important bug fixes and security patches, as Apple announced. The company is expected to provide a list of the specific security vulnerabilities that have been fixed later this evening. In iOS and iPadOS, a bug in the Photos app is also to be fixed, which could prevent the sharing of reviews.
In the EU, Apple must also make it much easier to install apps that are distributed outside the App Store. Although iOS has supported sideloading since last year, Apple originally made this more difficult with many steps and annoying hurdles, so that many users may have given up trying in frustration.
(Image:Â Apple)
As of iOS 18.6, the import of app marketplaces that are downloaded directly from a provider's website is much simpler: Users only have to allow the installation of an app download once using Face ID. Downloading individual apps from the developer website is also set to become somewhat simpler, as Apple announced in advance. Although further steps are required here, the installation procedure is described more clearly by iOS.
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Apps can link sideloading apps
In future, apps downloaded from the App Store will also be able to offer their users the installation of additional apps directly from the web, which was also completely unthinkable in iOS for a long time. The basic sideloading restrictions are currently unchanged: all apps will continue to be checked by Apple and there are high hurdles for developers to sell apps directly on the web. App marketplaces are subject to additional Apple requirements.
iOS 18.6 & Co are likely to be the penultimate major update for the current operating system versions. The iOS 26, iPadOS 26 and macOS 26 upgrades scheduled for the fall will all have the following year as a number in their names and will come in the Liquid Glass design – with new functions.
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