It is likely that the iOS 18.2.1 update will be available in late December 2024 or early January 2025, as a means to address security vulnerabilities or bugs.
Apple periodically releases small operating system updates throughout the year. This happens when the company identifies and addresses security issues, such as with the iOS 18.1.1 software update in November 2024.
However, on several occasions, Apple has issued updates with fixes for a number of undisclosed issues or bugs.
Previously, through the iOS 18.2 update, Apple brought new Apple Intelligence features, including Genmoji, Image Playground, and ChatGPT integration.