What iOS Are We On? A Guide for IT and Security Professionals

Updated on June 17, 2025, by ITarian

If you’ve ever asked, what iOS are we on, you’re in good company. For IT managers, cybersecurity professionals, and business leaders relying on Apple ecosystems, staying current on the latest iOS version is essential for securing devices, maintaining compliance, and enabling seamless user experiences.

In this post, we’ll explore the current iOS version, how to manage iPhone software updates, interpret iOS release notes, and what the latest features mean for enterprises and endpoint security.

The Latest iOS Version: Why It Matters

As of mid-2025, Apple’s latest official release is iOS 18, announced at WWDC and rolled out in September 2024. The version may have minor updates (like 18.1.2), so always check Settings > General > Software Update to verify your exact build.

Why It’s Important for IT & Security Teams:

Security patches are only released for current iOS builds.
Zero-day threats often target outdated versions.
Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools rely on version compatibility.

“An outdated iPhone OS is a liability. It’s not just about features—it’s about securing endpoints.”

iPhone Software Update: How It Works

Keeping devices up-to-date is essential for both functionality and security.

Manual Update:

Go to Settings.
Tap General.
Tap Software Update.

Automatic Update:

Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
Enable both “Download iOS Updates” and “Install iOS Updates”.

Best Practices for IT:

Push updates via MDM for company-managed devices.
Schedule updates during low-traffic hours.
Validate compatibility with business-critical apps before rollout.

Highlights from Recent iOS Release Notes

Apple’s iOS release notes provide a window into what’s new, improved, or fixed. Here’s what IT leaders should care about in iOS 18:

Key Enterprise Features:

Improved VPN and Wi-Fi configurations for MDM.
Passkeys and passwordless logins now supported across most apps.
Enhanced Mail and Safari tracking prevention.

Security Fixes:

Multiple kernel-level exploits patched.
Safari memory safety improvements.
Increased app sandboxing enforcement.

Usability Enhancements:

Smart widget stacking.
Voice dictation with enhanced privacy.
Unified Settings dashboard for accessibility tools.

iOS in the Enterprise: What Leaders Should Know

Apple devices are more prevalent than ever in the enterprise space. Understanding what iOS we’re on helps leaders:

Align compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or SOC 2.
Reduce downtime due to outdated OS bugs.
Secure BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) environments.

Use Cases:

Healthcare: Protect patient data with up-to-date security frameworks.
Finance: Enforce biometric login policies with Face ID updates.
Legal: Ensure encrypted messaging tools remain compliant.

Tips for Managing iOS Devices at Scale

Use MDM Tools (e.g., Jamf, Intune) to automate updates.
Educate Users on why updates matter for security.
Whitelist and blacklist apps based on compatibility.
Restrict outdated iOS devices from accessing corporate resources.
Monitor update status through endpoint management dashboards.

FAQs: What iOS Are We On?

1. What is the current iOS version in 2025?

As of June 2025, the latest public version is iOS 18, with minor updates likely applied (e.g., 18.1.x).

2. How do I check my iPhone’s iOS version?

Go to Settings > General > About and look for “iOS Version.”

3. Should I always update to the latest iOS?

Generally yes, especially for security patches. Test first if your organization uses specialized apps.

4. Can MDM force iOS updates?

Yes, most enterprise MDM platforms allow administrators to push updates and enforce minimum versions.

5. Where can I read iOS release notes?

Visit Apple’s official support site or check the Software Update section on the device.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Understanding what iOS are we on is more than just curiosity—it’s a baseline for effective IT operations, risk mitigation, and workforce productivity. Whether you’re deploying new iPhones or managing existing fleets, staying informed about iOS versions gives your organization a security edge.

👉 Start with Itarian today to automate iOS updates, monitor compliance, and protect every mobile endpoint in your enterprise.