Apple has rolled out iOS 18.6.2 and iPadOS 18.6.2 for all compatible iPhone and iPad models. The software can be installed directly through Settings > General > Software Update, but Apple also provides full IPSW firmware files for users who want a clean restore or need to troubleshoot persistent issues. IPSW files are complete system images, and while most people rely on over-the-air updates, advanced users and developers often prefer downloading the entire package to perform a manual installation.
This release follows iOS 18.6.1, which primarily focused on stability, but iOS 18.6.2 shifts attention to important fixes and security patches. Early reports suggest that Apple has addressed lock screen vulnerabilities and potential WebKit exploits, alongside solving performance glitches that some users noticed in the previous version. By providing these IPSW files, Apple ensures users have full control over how they maintain or restore their devices, which can be especially useful if over-the-air updates fail or if a user wants to start fresh without leftover data conflicts.
For users who prefer to perform a clean installation, Apple has also made IPSW firmware files for iOS 18.6.2 and iPadOS 18.6.2 available. These files can be downloaded manually and installed via Finder on macOS or iTunes on Windows. A clean install is often preferred by advanced users who want a fresh start or who are troubleshooting persistent issues on their device.
iOS 18.6.2 is compatible with iPhone models starting from iPhone XR and newer, including the latest iPhone 16 lineup. Similarly, iPadOS 18.6.2 supports iPad Pro models, iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad mini (5th generation and later), and standard iPad (7th generation and later). As with previous releases, Apple continues to ensure broad support for a wide range of hardware.
Here are the links, directly from Apple’s servers, to the latest software updates:
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max
- iPad Mini (7th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4), iPad Pro 13-inch (M4)
- iPad (A16)
- iPad (A16)
- iPad Air 11-inch (M3)
- iPad Air 11-inch (M2), iPad Air 13-inch (M2)
- 11-in. iPad Pro (4th generation), 12.9-in. iPad Pro (6th generation)
- iPad Air (5th Generation)
- 10.2-in. iPad (10th generation)
- 11-in. iPad Pro (3rd generation), 12.9-in. iPad Pro (5th generation)
- iPad mini (6th generation)
- 10.2-in. iPad (9th generation)
- iPad Air (4th generation)
- 10.2-in. iPad (8th generation)
- iPad mini (5th generation), iPad Air (3rd generation)
- 11-in. iPad Pro (1st and 2nd generations), 12.9-in. iPad Pro (3rd and 4th generations)
- 10.2-in. iPad (7th generation)
When downloading IPSW files, it is important to select the correct version for your exact iPhone or iPad model. Installing the wrong firmware can result in errors or failed restores. Users should also ensure that they back up their device via iCloud or Finder/iTunes before proceeding with a manual installation, since clean installs erase all data.
To install iOS 18.6.2 or iPadOS 18.6.2 using an IPSW file:
- Download the correct IPSW for your device.
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac or Windows PC.
- Open Finder (macOS) or iTunes (Windows).
- Select your device, then hold the Option key (Mac) or Shift key (Windows) and click “Restore iPhone” or “Restore iPad.”
- Choose the downloaded IPSW file and let the installation complete.
Most users will find updating directly over-the-air more convenient, but IPSW files remain valuable for advanced users who want maximum control over their update process. With iOS 18.6.2 and iPadOS 18.6.2 addressing critical vulnerabilities, updating promptly is highly recommended.
