iOS 18.6 beta 2 is here, but the changes are only for EU users

Apple published the first beta version of iOS 18.6. With all new features and attention to iOS 26, this version is probably simply an update of bugfix and compatibility. But although there are no visible changes in iOS 18.6, it may be necessary to take care of the new equipment that Apple could publish in the fall, such as Airpods Pro 3 or the next Home Hub device.

As such, 9TO5MAC noticed the following chain in the code:

/System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/ProgressUI.framework/apple-logo-1088@2x~home.png

The image of this chain contains “~ Home.png”, a structure not used in other images, and could be in reference to the next Home Hub to come or to a “Homepad” device.

Changes to the EU app store

Apple deploys new App Store directives and new user experience for those of the EU, in order to comply with the EU digital market law. The criticisms say that the new terms of Apple are intentionally confusing, do not respect the law of the EU and punish even more than before if they choose to avoid the App Store and to distribute their applications themselves.

IOS 18.6 includes a new user experience when customers try to install another application market or install applications directly from the web. This only applies to EU customers.

iOS 18.6: how to install the public beta version

If you want to be among the first to test iOS 18.6, you can register for the public beta test.

1. Click Sign up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
2. Connect to beta software.
3. Click Register your iOS device.
4. Open it Parameters App, press GeneralSO Software update.
5. In the beta updates section, select the IOS public beta version.

This can take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in the software update.

iOS 18.6: how to install the beta developer

You will need to be registered as Apple developer, but a free developer account will do the trick. You can get one via XCODE or Apple developer application in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer application:

1. Download the Apple Developer application from the App Store.
2. Open the application.
3. Press the account.
4. Connect using your usual Apple ID.

Registered developers can choose to obtain the public beta version by selecting Public beta iOS in the software update screen. This can take a little time after registering as a developer for the option to appear in software updates.

We expect iOS 18.6 to arrive in July. Discover everything you need to know about iOS 18 in our superguide iOS 18.