Apple is known for making bold decisions, especially when it comes to security and privacy, and its latest move is no different. In a surprising turn, the company is now forcing all iPhone users to update to iOS 26, despite earlier expectations that the iOS 26.2 update would be optional for iPhone 11 and newer models.
Initially, it was assumed that iOS 18.7.3 would be made available to all iPhones, as it was included in the beta and flagged for universal fixes. However, Apple has now limited these critical fixes, making them available only for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR models.
These updates are deemed "critical" as Apple has acknowledged that iPhones are once again being targeted, with new mercenary spyware discovered in the wild. This spyware is aimed at specific users but has the potential to expand the threat significantly over time.
It is unexpected that Apple chose to make this decision at this time. iOS 18.7.3 is designed for newer devices and could have been released. More significantly, this would have accelerated the update process throughout the broader Apple ecosystem, which is noteworthy.
Many users have been hesitant to upgrade to iOS 26, with reports suggesting that at least 50% still haven't updated. Analysts also point out that a small percentage are using ineligible devices. However, if you have an iPhone 11 or newer, delaying the upgrade is risky. The critical security fixes in iOS 26 have triggered a U.S. government warning, and with over 50% of devices running outdated OS versions, it’s essential to update to avoid potential threats.
Apple’s decision to make the iOS 26 upgrade mandatory was unexpected at this time.
iOS 18.7.3, designed for newer devices, could have been released earlier.
Releasing iOS 18.7.3 would have sped up the update process across the entire Apple ecosystem.
This decision highlights Apple's focus on improving security despite the delayed rollout.