Apple has released the second developer beta of iOS 26.5. At the same time, new beta versions of iPadOS 26.5, macOS 26.5 (Tahoe), watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 are also available. This marks the start of the next phase of the beta testing.
The release of Beta 2 follows the first beta of iOS 26.5, which already introduced a number of changes. With this second test version, Apple continues its usual development cycle. WWDC 2026 takes place from June 8th to 12th – iOS 26.5 is expected to be available in its final version by then. Experience shows that from the second beta onward, the focus increasingly shifts to stability, fine-tuning, and targeted adjustments.
iOS 26.5 Beta 2: What we know so far
At the time of release, no official release notes detailing specific new features are available. As is standard practice with any newly released beta, the current version is being analyzed. A separate, detailed report will follow as soon as any visible new features, functional adjustments, or system-relevant changes are documented.
New features, design adjustments, or minor fixes are generally possible. Experience shows that Apple often uses the second beta to incorporate feedback from the first test version and to refine existing features.
Looking back: What Beta 1 brought
The first beta of iOS 26.5 was released on March 30, 2026, and despite the lack of major new features, it brought a number of strategically relevant changes. These included the "Suggested Places" feature in Apple Maps, which is based on search history and popular nearby locations. At the same time, Apple is using this beta to prepare for the introduction of advertising in the Maps app. Businesses will soon be able to book ads in search results and for suggested places.
End-to-end encryption for RCS has been re-enabled in the Messages app. This feature was tested in iOS 26.4 but not included in the final version. For the European market, Apple has expanded support for third-party wearables under the Digital Markets Act. This includes simplified pairing by proximity, access to iPhone notifications, and, for the first time, the synchronization of live activity.
Other changes included new subscription options in the App Store, automatic Bluetooth pairing for Magic accessories via USB-C, expanded options for transferring data from iPhone to Android, and a new keyboard layout for Inuktitut. Notably absent, however, were new Siri features – the expected AI upgrades were not included.
When can we expect the final release?
The final release of iOS 26.5 is expected in mid-May, in time for WWDC in June. The beta phase typically lasts four to six weeks, with new builds released weekly. A release candidate is usually made available shortly before the final release.
Beta 2 is initially available exclusively to registered developers. A public beta should follow shortly.
Overview of the other systems
Alongside iOS 26.5 Beta 2, Apple also released updated test versions of the following systems:
iPadOS 26.5 is expected to bring further adjustments tailored to iPad-specific use. macOS 26.5 (Tahoe) is likely to include further optimizations and minor system improvements. Based on past experience, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 will receive selective adjustments and stability improvements, with major new features being less likely.
Once specific changes in the individual systems have been documented, these will be addressed separately and in detail.
iOS 26.5: Here's what's next
With Beta 2, Apple is consistently continuing the ongoing testing phase. The first beta already showed that iOS 26.5 focuses on targeted improvements, regulatory adjustments, and strategic decisions. The specific visible changes Beta 2 brings will be documented in a separate article, as usual, once the analysis is complete. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apfelpatient)
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