On February 11, 2026, Apple released iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5, a security-focused update for older iPhone and iPad models that are no longer eligible for iOS 26.
While this update doesn’t introduce new features, it’s an important release that strengthens device security and fixes critical vulnerabilities.
Here’s what you need to know.
📱 What Is iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5?
iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5 are security-only updates for select older devices, including:
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPad (7th generation)
These devices remain supported by Apple but do not receive the newer iOS 26 feature updates. Instead, Apple continues to provide essential security patches to keep them protected.
🔐 What’s New in iOS 18.7.5?
This update focuses entirely on security improvements and system stability.
1. WebKit Security Fixes
WebKit powers Safari and all in-app browsers on iOS. Apple patched vulnerabilities that could allow:
- Malicious websites to execute arbitrary code
- Memory corruption through crafted web content
- Exploitation via JavaScript rendering
Because WebKit is widely targeted, these patches are especially important.
2. Kernel Vulnerability Fixes
The update addresses issues within the iOS kernel that could potentially allow:
- Privilege escalation
- Unauthorized system access
- Exploit chains combining browser and system-level bugs
Kernel patches are critical because they protect the core of the operating system.
3. Improved Memory Handling
Apple also resolved memory corruption and validation issues that could:
- Cause unexpected app crashes
- Lead to system instability
- Create potential attack vectors
⚠️ Common Issues After Updating (And How To Fix Them)
Even though this is a minor update, some users may notice temporary issues after installing it.
🔋 Battery Drain
It’s normal to see slightly higher battery usage for 24–48 hours after updating due to system re-indexing.
✅ Fix:
- Restart your device
- Wait 1–2 days
- Check Settings > Battery for abnormal app usage
- Disable Background App Refresh for high-drain apps
- Update all apps in the App Store
If battery drain persists beyond 3 days:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset > Reset All Settings
(This does not delete your data.)
📶 Wi‑Fi or Cellular Issues
✅ Fix:
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off
- Restart the device
- Forget and reconnect to Wi‑Fi
- Reset Network Settings
(Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset > Reset Network Settings)
Note: Resetting network settings erases saved Wi‑Fi passwords.
📲 Apps Crashing
Older devices sometimes need app updates to align with new security patches.
✅ Fix:
- Update apps via the App Store
- Delete and reinstall problematic apps
- Restart the device
If multiple apps crash:
- Reset All Settings
📡 Bluetooth Problems
✅ Fix:
- Toggle Bluetooth off and on
- Remove and re-pair devices
- Restart both devices
- Reset Network Settings if needed
🔄 Update Won’t Install
If the update fails:
✅ Try:
- Ensure at least 5–6GB of free storage
- Restart your device
- Delete the update file
(Settings > General > iPhone Storage > iOS 18.7.5 > Delete Update) - Download again
You can also update using a Mac (Finder) or Windows PC (Apple Devices app).
✅ Should You Install iOS 18.7.5?
Yes.
Even though this update doesn’t include new features, it includes important security patches that protect your device from:
- Malicious websites
- Exploit-based attacks
- Browser vulnerabilities
- System-level privilege escalation
Security updates are especially important for older devices because they’re more likely to be targeted.
📌 How To Install iOS 18.7.5
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Tap Software Update
- Tap Download and Install
Before updating:
- Connect to Wi‑Fi
- Ensure battery is above 50% or plugged in
- Back up your device (iCloud or computer)
Final Thoughts
iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5 may not bring new features, but they’re essential updates for keeping older iPhones and iPads secure.
If you own an iPhone XS, XR, or iPad 7th generation, installing this update ensures your device continues to receive Apple’s latest security protections—even without the newest iOS version.
