Typically, after Apple introduces a new major version of its operating system, it stops pushing out the old version to compatible phones. Older phones that are incompatible with the new version continue to get security updates, but newer phones have to jump to the newer operating system to get them.

According to Wired, Apple will release an iOS 18 update on Wednesday morning to patch vulnerabilities exploited by the DarkSword hack.

As DarkSword spreads, Apple tells WIRED it will enable iOS 18-specific fixes for millions of iPhone owners who remain on that iOS version rather than force them to update to iOS 26.

In an unprecedented move, Apple has issued iOS 18.7.7 to all iPhones — including those that can update to its newer software iOS 26. Here's what you need to know.

The move highlights just how serious the DarkSword threat is and that there are enough users sticking with iOS 18 for Apple to address it.

Apple has released critical updates for millions of iPhone and iPad users to combat the 'DarkSword' hacking toolkit. This exploit, capable of stealing sensitive data from a simple website visit, now has patches for older iOS 18 versions.

To address the DarkSword exploit, Apple now lets iOS 18 users install the iOS 18.7.7 security update instead of upgrading to iOS 26.4. If you’re still using iOS 18, update immediately.

OS 26.5 beta 1 gives the Messages app support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, after previously being available in the iOS 26.4 beta.

Apple has today released the iOS 26.5 beta 1 for developers, following the global launch of iOS 26.4. This beta version focuses on minor improvements and practical features rather than major updates.

Apple is rolling out iOS and iPadOS updates for older devices to protect them against the recently disclosed DarkSword exploit kit.