Apple has released updates for some of its older operating systems at the same time as iOS 26, with downloads available for iOS 18.7, macOS Sonoma, macOS Sequoia, and others.
While the main focus of Apple's software releases are on the latest versions, it also issues updates for previous generations at the same time. Accompanying macOS 26 Tahoe, iOS 26, and others of the same generation, Apple's done the same for macOS Sonoma and macOS Sequoia, as well as iOS 18.7 and others.
The new release of macOS Sonoma 14.8 is build number 23J21, while macOS Sequoia 15.7 is build 24G222.
For iOS, the update for iOS 18.7 is build 22H20. The iOS 15.85 update is build 19H394, and iOS 16.7.12 is build 20H364.
The release of updates for older operating systems happens every so often, but typically includes changes that include product compatibility tweaks, bug fixes, and security updates. At this early stage, we do not know what the content of the updates are, but Apple usually releases patch notes explaining what they are for.
Installing the updates in macOS Sonoma and macOS Sequoia happens through the usual method, by opening System Settings and selecting General followed by Software Update. If an update is available, it will be installable from this menu.
On iOS, this is dealt with through the Settings app followed by General, Software Update, then tapping the relevant update and following the instructions.
