Apple is preparing a host of big software updates for next week, including iOS 18.1 with the first Apple Intelligence features. But it turns out, there's another iPhone software update on the way: iOS 17.7.1 is coming soon too.

Today alongside RC beta releases for iOS 18.1, macOS Sequoia 15.1, and more, Apple also debuted a surprise beta.

iOS 17.7.1, which has never previously been available as a beta, received its own RC beta release.

The update's release notes are short and sweet:

This update provides important security fixes and is recommended for all users.

iOS 17.7 was first released last month alongside iOS 18.

For most users, it was the software update that received prominent featuring in the Settings app. iOS 18 was presented as an optional alternative, rather than the main recommended option.

Now, for all the users who have yet to jump on iOS 18 since then, iOS 17.7.1 will provide key security fixes for their iPhone.

We don't know exactly when iOS 17.7.1 will release publicly, but it's likely we'll see it next week at the same time iOS 18.1 debuts -- probably October 28.

Are you still running iOS 17.7? What's keeping you from upgrading? Let us know in the comments.