Apple is set to release the iOS 18 Release Candidate (RC) next week, possibly on September 9th. If you’re currently using iOS 18 Beta, I recommend not updating to the RC if you want to install the official iOS 18 on its release day.
When an RC is released, it means the software has reached the final beta stage before public release. Typically, the RC shares the same build number as the official release, which means if you’re on iOS 18 RC, you won’t receive the official iOS 18 update since they have the same build number.
Therefore, I advise against updating to iOS 18 RC if you want to install the official iOS 18 directly on your iPhone on launch day.
However, there are rare exceptions where the RC and the official release have different build numbers, allowing you to update from the RC to the final version. For example, iOS 17.4 RC had a build number of 21E217, while the official iOS 17.4 release had a build number of 21E219, so you could update through Software Update.
Additionally, you should disable Beta Updates in Settings - General - Software Update - Beta Updates and select Off to prevent your iPhone from automatically downloading and installing beta updates.
If You Want to Continue with iOS 18.x Beta
If you plan to continue updating future iOS 18.x Betas, you can update to iOS 18 RC as usual without doing anything further, as it’s essentially the same as the public release.
If You Accidentally Updated to iOS 18 RC
If you’ve already updated to iOS 18 RC and want to exit the beta program but don’t see the official iOS 18 update in Settings - General - Software Update, you have two options:
Option 1: Stay on iOS 18 RC and Wait
You can stay on iOS 18 RC since, as mentioned, it’s very similar to the official iOS 18 release. Then, disable Beta Updates in Settings - General - Software Update - Beta Updates and select Off to stop receiving beta updates.
Next, you can wait until Apple releases a new update, such as iOS 18.0.1, and update through Software Update as usual, which will move you off iOS 18 RC.
Option 2: Restore Your Device with iOS 18
If you don’t want to wait, you’ll need to restore your iPhone using an iOS 18 .ipsw file (requires a Mac or Windows PC).
You can download the iOS 18 .ipsw file below (I’ll update the link when it’s available).
Backups made on iOS 18 RC are compatible with iOS 18, so make sure to back up your device before starting the restore process.
Steps to restore your iPhone can be found here:
How to Downgrade iOS 18 Beta to iOS 17.6.1 Without Data Loss
Don’t forget to follow @BetaProfiles on X (formerly Twitter) to stay updated and not miss any information.