ZDNET’s key takeaways

  • Apple has released iOS/iPadOS 26.6.2.
  • The update patches a cellular download bug.
  • This should be the last update before iOS 27 launches.

Just when you thought iOS 27 would be the next version you’d install on your iPhone, Apple has one more trick up its sleeve. On Tuesday, the company rolled out iOS 26.6.2 (and iPadOS 26.6.2) with just a single bug fix, but an important one.

Also: Apple event 2026 live updates: The first foldable iPhone and more in real time

Apple’s release notes say “this update fixes an issue that prevents downloading a software update over a cellular connection.” With iOS 27 around the corner, it is an update you’ll want to install to make sure you can grab the new OS even when connected via cellular. However, such a major update is typically a large one, so you’re still better off downloading it over a good Wi-Fi connection.

How to update your iPhone

To snag the latest update on your iPhone or iPad, head to Settings, select General, and then tap Software Update. Tap the Update Now button to download and install it. After your phone restarts, the download bug should be squashed.

Also: I’m skipping the iPhone 18 Pro Max this year, but the foldable Ultra? I want it real bad

Unless some dramatic new security flaw appears over the next few days, this will be the last iOS 26 update before iOS 27 appears. Apple should reveal the exact launch date for the new OS at its iPhone event later today. But expect it to pop up early next week, with the odds favoring Monday, Sept 14.

Looking ahead to iOS 27

After going though rounds of beta testing the past few months, iOS 27 promises a host of new and improved features. At the top of the list is Siri AI. A long-awaited and much-anticipated new version of Apple’s often flawed and fallible voice assistant, Siri AI brings AI-level skills to the table. The new flavor can answer a variety of real-world questions, engage you in a conversation, see what’s on your screen, and handle requests across your apps.

Early testing, including my own, has praised Siri AI as a huge improvement over its predecessor.

Also: I tested iOS 26 Siri against iOS 27 Siri AI in my car – and it wasn’t even close

Aside from the new Siri, iOS 27 enhances several key apps and features, including Control Center, Photos, voice dictation, and Screen Time. To run the new OS, you’ll need an iPhone 11 or higher or an iPhone SE 3rd generation or later. The iPhone X lineup and and 2nd-generation SE models are not supported. But to use Siri and Apple Intelligence, you’ll need a more recent phone, notably an iPhone 15 Pro or higher.

Lance Whitney
Lance Whitney is a technology journalist with an IT background. He's written for TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, and Time, among others, He also teaches classes in AI, cybersecurity, and social media.