Apple was working on a new approach to send alternative security upgrades to iPhone and iPad customers even before the iOS 15 announcement.

For whatever reason, Apple has backed down and is no longer allowing consumers to continue on iOS 14 with security updates. Instead, it has resorted to the old manner of updating, in which customers are required to install the most recent version of the operating system (iOS 15) in order to get security updates.

Apple reportedly was working on a new approach to send alternative security upgrades to iPhone and iPad customers even before the iOS 15 announcement. Later, Apple stated that it will provide security fixes for iOS 14 to those who had not received them. Devices using iOS 14.8 or earlier versions of the operating system cannot be upgraded to iOS 14.8.1, according to 9to5Mac.

The Software Update option, on the other hand, only shows the iOS 15.2.1 update. Previously, iOS 15 was displayed as an optional upgrade, with customers having the option of installing only the iOS 14 security fixes.

While this may be merely a glitch, Apple hasn't published any more security fixes for iOS 14 users since October. Although the business has not acknowledged or denied anything, it may have reconsidered its decision to provide alternate updates to those who do not wish to upgrade to the most recent version of iOS. For the time being, you'll need to install iOS 15 on your iPhone or iPad to get the most recent security upgrades.