iOS 17.7 rolls out this week - here's why it might be a safer bet than iOS 18

iOS 18 will officially roll out on September 16 to many different iPhone models from the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 15 Pro. Users will receive multiple new features, from a more personalized home screen to Apple Intelligence on certain models. 

When a new iOS version rolls out, Apple begins to slow down its support for the previous generation to get more people to adopt the updated software. But this time, the company is going to be doing things differently. Alongside iOS 18 RC (Release Candidate), Apple is launching iOS 17.7 this week, according to 9To5Mac.

Also: Every iPhone model that can be updated to Apple's iOS 18 (and which ones can't)

iOS 17.7 won't add extra features, although it will introduce "security patches and bug fixes." Release notes are unavailable on the company's website, so we don't know exactly what the mobile OS will include. 

However, when iOS 17.7 is available, iPhone owners can download the update with the assurance that their device's security won't be outdated or exposed to potential threats. You can move towards iOS 18 at any time. However, you may be better off installing iOS 17.7 instead. Here's why.

There's no guarantee all the apps on your device will work on iOS 18. New systems always come with bugs, and it's usually best to wait until all the wrinkles have been ironed out. 

Also: The 7 best iOS 18 features that will make updating your iPhone worthwhile

In addition, iOS 18 brings Apple's first round of generative AI features to mobile. The features of Apple Intelligence include writing tools, photo-editing tools, audio transcriptions, and more. 

Apple Intelligence will be a great addition to the iOS ecosystem, but generative AI tech isn't perfect. AI-enabled services can often hallucinate and make mistakes. This issue plagues current generative AI models and bots. Apple Intelligence may go through the same process, too.

Also: Apple Intelligence arrives next month: 6 AI upgrades iPhone users can expect first.

Once again, you may be better off waiting until any issues are addressed. To install iOS 17.7, go to the Settings menu, tap the General tab, and select Software Update. The option to download the software is near the bottom. It's also recommended you back up your device to iCloud in case the process is interrupted.