Apple may have at least one more update to its iOS 14 operating system ahead of its anticipated iOS 15 launch, according to references spotted in Xcode.
The references mention iOS 14.8, which suggests that the update could could ahead of or be released alongside iOS 15.
Apple typically stops working on prior iOS updates when the launch of new versions of iOS approach in the late summer and fall, so it is unusual to get a 14.8 update. When new iOS updates are coming, Apple drops its work on the current version and it usually only gets critical security updates.
Historically, Apple has never released a .8 update for its iOS operating system. iOS 11 stopped at iOS 11.4, iOS 12 stopped at iOS 12.5, and iOS 13 stopped at iOS 13.7.
The release schedule could in fact be different this year, as Apple plans to offer users a choice between iOS 14 and iOS 15. Users will also be allowed to remain on iOS 14 and iPad OS 14 following the launch of the new iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 updates.
Per Apple:
iOS now offers a choice between two software update versions in the Settings app. You can update to the latest version of iOS 15 as soon as it’s released for the latest features and most complete set of security updates. Or continue on iOS 14 and still get important security updates until you’re ready to upgrade to the next major version.
It is not yet clear what will be included in the iOS 14.8 update. It may focus on bug fixes, performance improvements, and other optimizations rather than major new features given Apple’s focus on iOS 15.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors and @realmrpippy