iOS 26 Mandatory for Newer iPhones: Apple Disables iOS 18 Update Option

While iOS 18.7.3 is available with important security improvements, only older iPhones will receive it. Owners of newer devices must use iOS 26.2.
Forbes

iOS 26.2—Apple Gives iPhone Users 3 New Reasons To Update From iOS 18

Here are three very good reasons to update to iOS 26.2 if you are still on iOS 18. Here are three very good reasons to update to iOS 26.2 if you are still on iOS 18. This is a big change as since ...
Commercial Appeal

When does iOS 26.2 drop? Why Apple recommends updating to iOS 26 now

Apple is now recommending that iPhone users update to iOS 26, changing it from an optional upgrade. Users with an iPhone 11 or newer can download and install the iOS 26 update. While users can remain ...
NorthJersey.com

When is Apple iOS 26.2 coming out? iPhone update, time in New Jersey

Have you upgraded your iPhone to iOS 26 yet, or still running iOS 18? Apple's iOS 26.2 release date may come out today, Dec. 8, 2025, or this week, and the new iPhone and iPad updates have a slew of ...