iOS 18.7.7 and iPadOS 18.7.7 now available for older iPhones and iPads

Alongside iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4, Apple has also released iOS 18.7.7 and iPadOS 18.7.7 for older devices that remain on the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 track. The new update carries build number 22H333 and is meant for users who either cannot move to the newer software branch or prefer to stay on the previous version for now.

This release is available for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and the 7th-generation iPad. Apple is positioning it as a security-focused update rather than a feature drop, so users should not expect any visible new additions after installation.

Apple’s security notes show that iOS 18.7.7 and iPadOS 18.7.7 fix a long list of vulnerabilities across areas such as WebKit, Kernel, AppleKeyStore, Clipboard, iCloud, Focus, Security, and more. That means this update matters most for protection, stability, and keeping older supported devices patched.

How to update in short steps

Updating is simple, and the process stays the same on supported iPhones and iPads:

• Open Settings
• Tap General
• Tap Software Update
• Wait for iOS 18.7.7 or iPadOS 18.7.7 to appear
• Tap Update Now or Download and Install
• Enter your passcode if prompted
• Keep your device connected to Wi-Fi and power until the installation finishes

Before you start, make sure your battery has enough charge or keep the device plugged in. It also helps to free up some storage if the update does not show up right away.

All the Changes

Since this is a maintenance release, the main changes are under the hood. Here is what the update brings:

• Important security fixes for older supported devices
• Multiple WebKit patches, including fixes for issues that could let malicious websites break security protections or expose data
• Kernel fixes that address memory leaks, sensitive kernel state exposure, and unexpected system termination risks
• A fix for an AppleKeyStore issue that could cause unexpected system shutdowns
• Clipboard, Focus, DeviceLink, and iCloud fixes that address access to sensitive user data
• A Security fix tied to Keychain access protections
• Network-related fixes, including an 802.1X issue that could allow traffic interception in a privileged network position
• Additional fixes for media, app privacy, file parsing, and denial-of-service risks across several system components

In short, this update is about keeping older hardware secure and reliable. There are no headline features here, but that does not make the release any less important for people still using these devices every day.

If you are using an iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or iPad 7, this is one of those updates you should install sooner rather than later. Let us know in the comments if you have already updated your device and how the installation went.