Apple has released the release candidate (RC) versions of iOS 26.6 and iPadOS 26.6 to developers for testing. This follows the seeding of the fifth betas a week prior. The RCs are considered the final builds, pending any critical bug discoveries before the public launch.

Developers can access these updates via the Settings app on their iPhones and iPads, navigating to General > Software Update. As Apple prepares for the September launch of iOS 27, this iOS 26 update is primarily focused on security enhancements and optimizing the Spotlight index to ensure a smooth transition to the next major version. This release signifies the culmination of development for iOS 26.

Recent related updates include iOS 26.5.2 and iPadOS 26.5.2, released to address security vulnerabilities and include a charging fix for specific iPhone models. Prior to the RC, Apple also seeded the third developer and public betas of iOS 26.6 and companion updates for iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, watchOS, and tvOS, indicating a comprehensive testing phase for these software versions.