Apple skipped from iOS 18 directly to iOS 26 to unify and simplify the version numbering across all its operating systems. Previously, Apple's various OSes like iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS had inconsistent and confusing version numbers reflecting their different release histories. By jumping to iOS 26, Apple aligned the version numbers with the upcoming year (2026) across all platforms, similar to how car models use the next year's number. This strategy creates a more consistent and intuitive naming system for users and brings a unified look and feel to all Apple operating systems going forward.
In summary:
- Apple had multiple operating systems with inconsistent version numbers.
- The version numbers were confusing due to different OSes' histories.
- Apple adopted a system where the version number matches the calendar year.
- This led to skipping intervening numbers to jump to iOS 26 in 2025 for the 2026 software.
- The change applies to iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and others too.
- The goal is a unified, easy-to-understand, and long-term system version naming.
