Apple releases iOS 14.8, iPadOS 14.8, watchOS 7.6.2, and macOS 11.6 Big Sur with security fixes

Apple didn’t do the traditional beta seeding for this release, but there were hints that Apple was working on a new software version of iOS ahead of the much more anticipated iOS 15. And, it turns out that is indeed the case.

Today, Apple has released iOS 14.8, iPadOS 14.8, watchOS 7.6.2, and macOS 11.6 Big Sur to the public. While the version number would suggest something big, that’s not really going to be the case. This is meant to be the final version of iOS 14 released to the public, so it’s not necessarily meant to add any major new features to the mix.

It’s also worth noting that Apple is changing things up this year as far as software updates are concerned. With the public launch of iOS 15, Apple is making a change to how updates work. iOS users on eligible devices will actually have the ability to choose to either update to iOS 15 right when it launches (or soon after) if they want to use the most up-to-date version of the platform, and use all those new features. Or, they can stick with iOS 14. If they choose the latter route, they will continue to get security updates, but not have to make the switch to iOS 15 if they don’t want.

As far as what’s new, it’s all security related. Apple says the update is recommended for all users. If you aren’t seeing it already, the update should go live on Apple’s servers soon enough.

If there are any major new discoveries made in iOS 14.8, though, we will update this post accordingly.

iOS 14.8 is available to download now, and it’s a free update. To get the new software on your eligible device(s), simply open the Settings app –> General –> Software Update and follow the onscreen instructions. If you have Automatic Updates switched on, your iPhone will handle the update process on its own overnight.

To update to the newest version of watchOS, open the Watch app –> General –> Software Update and follow the instructions. Automatic Updates will apply the update automatically overnight. The Apple Watch must have at least 50% battery, be connected to its charger, and also paired with an iPhone.

To update to macOS 11.6 Big Sur, open System Preferences –> Software Update and follow the installation instructions.

Are you planning to update to iOS 15 as soon as the software is available to the public later this month?