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Apple just released new updates for old versions of iOS, macOS, watchOS, more

Apple has just released a variety of new software updates for its devices, but they’re all for older versions of iOS, macOS, watchOS, and iPadOS. Here are the details.

Older iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch models get new software updates

Per Aaron Perris, Apple has released the following new software updates:

  • iOS 16.7.14 (build 20H370)
  • iPadOS 16.7.14 (build 20H370)
  • macOS 11.7.11 (build 20G1443)
  • watchOS 10.6.2 (build 21U594)
  • watchOS 9.6.4 (build 20U512)
  • watchOS 6.3.1 (build 17U224)
  • macOS Catalina Security Update 2026-001

These releases are all for older versions of iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch software.

iOS 16.7.14, as noted here, addresses an issue that was discovered in the prior iOS 16.7.13 release. Apple shipped that update last week but ultimately pulled it when network connectivity issues in Australia were discovered.

However, the new updates for macOS and watchOS are a bit of a surprise.

Per Apple’s online support documents, they appear to be focused on extending iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation certifications on older devices.

From Apple’s website regarding the Big Sur update:

This update extends the certification required by features such as iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation to continue working after January 2027.

We’ll keep you posted on any additional software updates that may arrive, or new details on this latest lineup of releases.

Are you running any of these older software versions still? Let us know in the comments.

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Avatar for Ryan Christoffel Ryan Christoffel

Ryan got his start in journalism as an Editor at MacStories, where he worked for four years covering Apple news, writing app reviews, and more. For two years he co-hosted the Adapt podcast on Relay FM, which focused entirely on the iPad. As a result, it should come as no surprise that his favorite Apple device is the iPad Pro.