Apple has released iOS 18.6 Beta 2 to developers, continuing its mid-cycle refinement of iOS 18.
This update introduces regulatory-driven changes for the EU, expands Apple Intelligence to China, and hints at upcoming hardware improvements—all while delivering notable performance and stability enhancements.
Release Information
iOS 18.6 Beta 2 was released to developers on June 30, 2025, with the build number 22G5064d.
The update is approximately 788.5 MB on devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and is compatible with all iPhones that support iOS 18—from the iPhone XR through the latest iPhone 16 series.
This release is part of a broader update cycle across Apple's ecosystem, accompanied by beta versions of iPadOS 18.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, watchOS 11.6, tvOS 18.6, HomePodOS 18.6, and visionOS 2.6.
Notably, there is no modem firmware update in this beta, and users already on iOS 26 Beta will not see this update due to version conflicts.
Key Updates
Simplified Third-Party App Installation (EU)
In compliance with the EU Digital Markets Act, Apple has introduced a streamlined experience for installing third-party apps and app stores directly from the web.
The first-time installation process has been simplified, reducing intrusive warnings and enabling smoother onboarding for alternative app ecosystems.
Expansion of Apple Intelligence (China)
iOS 18.6 Beta 2 expands Apple Intelligence features into China through regional partnerships:
- Baidu powers Visual Intelligence and Search capabilities.
This marks a significant step in Apple's international AI deployment strategy, following the introduction of Mandarin support in earlier versions.
Hardware Hints: AirTags 2 and Smart Home Hub
Code within the beta reveals references to:
- A next-generation AirTags 2, potentially featuring improved battery life, range, and efficiency.
- An unreleased smart home hub, originally expected earlier in the year but possibly delayed due to Siri integration challenges.
(Credit: Apple)
These findings suggest upcoming hardware announcements aligned with iOS 19 or new iPhone launches.
Ecosystem Enhancements
- Pixelmator Pro has been updated with Apple Intelligence features.
- Google Calendar is now available on watchOS, expanding third-party app functionality on Apple Watch.
- Apple celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Apple Music, highlighting its evolution and future roadmap.
Performance and Bug Fixes
System Stability & Responsiveness
User reports indicate that iOS 18.6 Beta 2 is one of the smoothest betas in recent memory:
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Benchmark scores: Single-core at 356 and multi-core at 8,646.
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No animation stutters or UI lag during app transitions or multitasking.
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Prominent bugs like wallpaper dimming have been partially resolved.
Battery Life & Storage Optimization
Battery performance in iOS 18.6 Beta 2 appears to be exceptionally strong.
Early adopters have reported 8 to 10 hours of screen-on time, indicating significant improvements in power efficiency compared to previous versions.
Additionally, the system maintains a cool operating temperature even during extended usage sessions, suggesting that Apple has made meaningful progress in thermal management and background processing control.
On the storage front, the update demonstrates a more optimized footprint. The core iOS system occupies approximately 12.4 GB, while Apple Intelligence components add another 6.28 GB, bringing the total system usage to around 18.68 GB.
This efficient allocation helps ensure that users retain more available storage for personal data and apps, even on devices with lower capacity.
Bug Fixes & Security
While Apple has not published detailed release notes, the update includes general bug fixes and security enhancements.
These are expected to be detailed post-public release via Apple's Security Updates Portal.
Editor's Comments
iOS 18.6 Beta 2 reflects Apple's dual focus: regulatory adaptation and global AI expansion.
The streamlined third-party app installation in the EU could reshape how users interact with alternative app ecosystems—potentially setting a precedent for other regions.
Meanwhile, bringing Apple Intelligence to China signals Apple's intent to globalize its AI platform while respecting local constraints.
Compared to iOS 18.3, this update is less about new user-facing features and more about foundational improvements—performance, compliance, and forward-looking integrations.
With Beta 3 expected around July 14, followed by a public release by late July, this version feels like a polished stepping stone toward iOS 26's debut in September.
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