Apple released iOS 26.6.1 on Monday, Aug. 17, about a month before I expect the tech company to release iOS 27 to the general public. The iOS 26.6.1 update brings over 20 bug fixes and security patches to your device, including a patch for an iCloud Private Relay vulnerability that could expose a person’s IP address even if the feature was enabled.

You can download iOS 26.6.1 now by going to Settings and tapping General. Next, select Software Update, tap Update Now and follow the prompts on your screen.

According to the update’s common vulnerabilities and exposures report, iOS 26.6.1 addresses various issues that could cause issues, such as unexpected system crashes. So I recommend updating as soon as possible rather than waiting for iOS 27.

Apple wrote in the release notes that many fixes in iOS 26.6.1 address issues in WebKit, which is the engine powering Safari and other third-party web browsers on iOS. The update also patches some issues in the iOS kernel, which is the backbone of iOS, handling things like security and managing memory.

Security updates help ensure your device has the best protection possible and that it runs smoothly. So while you might be tempted to wait to update your device until Apple releases iOS 27 – likely around this time next month, based on past iOS releases – you should download the latest update now.

For more on iOS, here’s what to know about iOS 27 and everything to know about iOS 26.

Zachary McAuliffe

Senior writer

Zach began writing for CNET in November, 2021 after writing for a broadcast news station in his hometown, Cincinnati, for five years. You can usually find him hanging out with his wife, son and dog. You can reach him at zmcauliffe@cnet.com.

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