Apple has officially rolled out iOS 26 for supported iPhones, but the tech giant hasn’t left behind users on older operating systems. Alongside its flagship update, Apple has pushed out a fresh wave of upgrades for iOS 18, macOS Sonoma, macOS Sequoia, and other platforms. 
This move underlines Apple’s long-standing commitment to extending support for older devices, ensuring that security, stability, and usability are not compromised even when a new OS generation arrives.
For iPhone users who are still on iOS 18, the update now comes in the form of iOS 18.7 (build 22H20). On the Mac side, macOS Sonoma 14.7 has been released with build 23J21, while macOS Sequoia 15.7 arrives under build 24G222. While the spotlight naturally shines on iOS 26, these parallel updates highlight Apple’s philosophy: maintaining a secure and cohesive ecosystem where even older devices remain in step with essential fixes and compatibility adjustments.
So what exactly do these updates bring? While Apple rarely publishes extensive change logs for legacy system patches, they generally focus on critical improvements. Users can expect bug fixes that smooth out minor annoyances, performance optimizations that keep aging hardware responsive, and – most importantly – security patches that protect devices against emerging threats. In an era where cyber vulnerabilities evolve rapidly, such updates are crucial for everyday users, whether they’re on the newest iPhone or holding onto a trusted MacBook from a few years back.
The update process remains familiar and straightforward. On a Mac, open System Settings, navigate to General, then Software Update. If the update is available, it will appear in the menu, ready to download and install. On iPhones, the process is similar: head to Settings, tap General, then Software Update, and follow the prompts. This consistency across devices is one of Apple’s subtle but powerful design philosophies: the user experience remains predictable, regardless of hardware generation.
What makes Apple’s approach notable is its dedication to users who may not – or cannot – move to the very latest version. Not everyone is eager to jump on day one of a new OS, and some devices are simply not compatible with the latest software. Yet, with these smaller but significant updates, Apple ensures that no user is left exposed or ignored. This provides peace of mind for those running older iPhones as backup devices, or for individuals who prefer to wait until the initial wave of potential bugs in a brand-new OS has settled down.
Beyond practicality, there is also a strategic dimension. Continued support for older operating systems reinforces the idea that Apple devices are a long-term investment. A new iPhone or Mac comes with years of active support, and even when it reaches the end of the upgrade path, it still benefits from ongoing maintenance. This longevity contributes to Apple’s strong resale market and cultivates brand loyalty, as consumers know their devices won’t be rendered obsolete overnight.
Ultimately, Apple’s rollout of iOS 26 alongside updates for iOS 18, macOS Sonoma, and macOS Sequoia illustrates a delicate balance: pushing forward with innovation while protecting the reliability of the past. For users, it’s reassurance that their devices – whether cutting-edge or aging but trusted – remain safe, stable, and ready for daily use. And in a digital landscape where security and performance are more important than ever, that continuity is invaluable.