This has been policy for years. I just can't make myself upgrade to Tahoe.
From [0]:
"Because of dependency on architecture and system changes to any current version of Apple operating systems (for example, macOS 26, iOS 26, and so on), not all known security issues are addressed in previous versions (for example, macOS 15, iOS 18, and so on)."
The explanation doesn't make much sense here, as the patches exist, they are simply being made available only for the subset of devices. Some of the listed vulnerabilities aren't even in the OS itself, but in the apps like Books, Mail and Messages.
This has been policy for years. I just can't make myself upgrade to Tahoe.
From [0]:
"Because of dependency on architecture and system changes to any current version of Apple operating systems (for example, macOS 26, iOS 26, and so on), not all known security issues are addressed in previous versions (for example, macOS 15, iOS 18, and so on)."
[0] https://support.apple.com/en-ca/guide/deployment/depc4c80847...
[1] https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/10/apple-clarifies-secu...
The explanation doesn't make much sense here, as the patches exist, they are simply being made available only for the subset of devices. Some of the listed vulnerabilities aren't even in the OS itself, but in the apps like Books, Mail and Messages.
I agree with you, and with the OP title, Apple is withholding updates in this (and other cases).
The little blurb I quoted is sort of an excuse for some other updates.
I am not blaming you or the Ars article for Apple's stance on this issue. Just feeling a little frustrated about the whole situation.
The update is available only for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPad 7th generation.
People with a more modern iPhone or iPad who chose to avoid updating to iOS/iPadOS 26 are given only an option to update to 26.3.
Came here for this. 18 is supposed to be supported for another 6 months at a minimum. What fucking bullshit! Fuck Apple!
Edit: 26 macOS and iOS/iPadOS suck, I won't use them.