Apple Stops Signing iOS 17.6, the Arrival of iOS 18 is Imminent
iOS 17.6 was an update primarily focused on security fixes and performance improvements, and it will be the last before the release of iOS 18!
Apple recently released the significant iOS 17.6.1 update with many important new features, including addressing security issues. Following this important update, Apple has stopped signing iOS 17.6, the immediately previous version that was available. This brings us closer to the possibility that we are seeing the last iOS 17 update before the release of iOS 18, which will take place in just over a month..
Stopping the signing of an iOS version "locks" that version for new installations. Therefore, if you want to restore your iPhone or if you are on an earlier version and want to update, you will not be able to. This is a security measure by Apple to ensure that most users always update to the latest and most secure version of iOS.
iOS 17.6.1 may be the last update before the release of iOS 18
iOS 17.6 was an update primarily focused on security fixes and performance improvements. Although it did not introduce any significant new features, it was crucial to keep iPhone devices secure and running optimally.
The iOS 17.6.1 update focused on fixing a specific issue that prevented some users from enabling or disabling Advanced Data Protection, an important security feature.
Advanced Data Protection is an extreme security setting that Apple launched with iOS 16, which increases the security level of all data stored on our devices through end-to-end encryption. Advanced Data Protection is activated from the iCloud settings and will protect important elements such as iCloud backup, iCloud Drive, photos, notes, reminders, Safari favorites, Siri shortcuts, voice memos, Wallet cards, passwords and keychain, Health data, Home data, Messages in iCloud, payment information, Apple Card transactions, maps, vocabulary learned from the QuickType keyboard, Safari, screen time, Siri information, Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth W1 and H1 keys, Memoji.
Additionally, Apple indicates that iOS 17.6.1 is an update that includes important bug fixes, although they have not yet been specified, so it is very important to install it on your iPhone. To do this, go to Settings > General > Software Update and download iOS 17.6.1.
Hello iOS 18
iOS 18 is one of the biggest updates to the iPhone operating system in its history. Undoubtedly, Apple Intelligence and other features are eagerly awaited by all users. While several are already available in the second beta version 18.1, it will be until the official launch of the operating system that users with compatible devices will be able to enjoy this overhaul, which includes AI-optimized functions and the redesign of many elements.