Introduction

Today marks the much-anticipated public release of several major Apple software updates, including iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 Sequoia. With these updates, Apple lays the groundwork for enhanced features and innovations, leveraging what insiders have dubbed 'Apple Intelligence.' However, for users who prioritize stability and reliability over the latest bells and whistles, the prospect of an update with a version number ending in '0' may be less than thrilling.

Security Updates for Older Operating Systems

For those who prefer to hold off until the dust settles and any initial bugs are squashed, Apple is also unveiling a series of security-only updates for older operating systems. Specifically, updates for iOS 17.7, iPadOS 17.7, and macOS 14.7 are now available or on the way, alongside an important security update for macOS 13 Ventura, which was released in 2022. While an upgraded version of Safari 18 that supports both macOS 13 and 14 is on the horizon, it seems it is not yet available at this moment.

Historical Context of Apple’s Update Policy

Historically, Apple has been diligent about delivering security updates for older macOS versions, generally continuing support for about two years after a new operating system replaces it. However, the company had previously ceased updates for older iOS and iPadOS versions once a new one was introduced. A significant policy shift occurred in 2021, with Apple starting to roll out security-only updates for older iOS versions, recognizing the concerns of users hesitant to embrace potentially buggy new releases.

Transitioning to New Versions

Eventually, users of iOS and iPadOS will need to transition to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 to ensure continued security updates. Nonetheless, Apple has been known to support certain older iPads that cannot run the new iPadOS with security updates for an additional year or two. For instance, as recently as August, Apple was still providing security updates for iOS 16, which kept older devices like the iPhone 8 and first-generation iPad Pros reasonably secure, even while unable to run the latest operating systems.

Conclusion

Keep an eye out for these updates, as Apple continues to innovate while also maintaining a safety net for those who prefer to take a more cautious approach to software upgrades. Are you ready to dive into the future or are you playing it safe?