Apple Forces iOS 26 Upgrade Amid Active iPhone Security Threats

Apple has taken an unusually firm stance on software updates by effectively forcing many iPhone users to move to iOS 26, citing active security threats targeting devices in the wild. The decision marks a departure from Apple’s typical approach of offering extended security updates for older operating system versions, even after a major new release becomes available.

Until recently, it was widely expected that iOS 18.7.3 would serve as a final optional update for users unwilling or unable to upgrade to iOS 26, particularly those with newer devices such as the iPhone 11 and above. Early beta releases appeared to support this assumption, with fixes initially flagged for a broad range of devices. That position has since changed. 

Apple has now restricted key security fixes to older models, including the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, leaving newer devices with no option other than upgrading to iOS 26 to remain protected.

Apple has confirmed that the vulnerabilities addressed in the latest updates are actively being exploited. The company has acknowledged the presence of mercenary spyware operating in the wild, targeting specific individuals but carrying the potential to spread more widely over time. These threats elevate the importance of timely updates, particularly as spyware campaigns increasingly focus on mobile platforms. 

The move has surprised industry observers, as iOS 18.7.3 was reportedly compatible with newer hardware and cou

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