Apple Releases iOS 18.6 Beta 3 to Developers with EU App Store Changes

Apple distributes the third beta of iOS 18.6 and iPados 18.6 to developers, but the public beta continues to be long in coming. While larger innovations do not exist, there are indications of various app store adjustments.

Third beta of iOS 18.6 available

Apple distributed the third beta versions of the upcoming updates for iOS 18.6 and Ipados 18.6 to developers. The new trial versions follow two weeks after the second betas were published and carry the build number 22G5073b. In addition to the iPhone and iPad operating systems, the group has also provided new beta versions for MacOS Sequoia 15.6, Watchos 11.6, TVOS 18.6 and Visionos 2.6. Registered developers can download the third beta on compatible devices using the setting app by navigating to “General”> “Softwareupdate”. The beta versions primarily serve to give developers the opportunity to test their apps for compatibility and to identify any problems before public publication.

EU adjustments in focus

As with the first two beta versions, no significant new functions in iOS 18.6 and iPados 18.6 have been discovered. The updates are probably mainly focusing on minor improvements and error loans. However, there are indications of changes to the App Store in the European Union, which are due to the requirements of the Digital Market Act (DMA). According to the company, Apple is carrying out some adjustments to the EU market in the third beta version.

This applies in particular to the app store and the associated functions and the release of other app download sources. Apple had already made changes in earlier iOS versions to meet the strict regulations, including the use of alternative browsers and certain preinstalled apps. The Digital Markets Act, which came into force in March 2024, obliges large tech companies such as Apple to open their platforms for competitors.

This has already led to significant changes in iOS, including support for alternative app stores and payment systems in the EU.

Apple Intelligence and China challenges

There is still an interesting change. According to Apple, Apple Intelligence was originally supposed to start in China with iOS 18.6, but now it looks very different. Regulatory hurdles and the tense trade relationships between the United States and China have apparently delayed the start.

Outlook on iOS 26

While Apple slowly completes the work on iOS 18.6, the company’s focus is already on iOS 26, and there is now also waiting for the first public beta. The next large version of the operating system is currently in the early development phase and is to be launched in September 2025 together with the new iPhone models. The final version of iOS 18.6 and iPados 18.6 is expected to be published for all users in the coming weeks, probably an appointment in early August, long before the start of iOS 26.