Apple has officially released iOS 26.5 for all users. The update brings end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, new features in Apple Maps, a Pride wallpaper, and expanded rights for third-party accessories in the EU. iPadOS 26.5, macOS 26.5 ("Tahoe"), watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 are also being released simultaneously.
With iOS 26.5, Apple concludes its final major development cycle before WWDC 2026. This update is the fifth interim release since the launch of iOS 26 in September 2025 and is functionally more compact than its predecessor, iOS 26.4. The focus is on targeted improvements in messaging security, map services, and regulatory adjustments for the European market. Apple has tested the update since the end of March through four betas and two release candidates. iOS 26.5 is now available for download via "Settings > General > Software Update". If the installation does not work as expected, the overview of iPhone update problems and their solutions may provide further assistance.
RCS messages with end-to-end encryption
The most important new feature in iOS 26.5 concerns the Messages app. Apple is enabling end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iPhones and Android devices for the first time. The feature was already tested in the beta phase of iOS 26.4 but didn't make it into the final version. With iOS 26.5, Apple is now delivering the encryption – albeit with the caveat that it is still in beta and only available with supported mobile carriers. The encryption is enabled by default and can be managed under "Settings > Messages > RCS Messages".
Apple Maps: Suggested places and preparation for advertising
Apple Maps will receive the "Suggested Places" feature with iOS 26.5. This displays recommendations based on the user's current location, popular nearby places, and search history. Suggestions include restaurants, shops, and other destinations. At the same time, this update lays the technical groundwork for advertising in the Maps app. Paid search results and advertised place suggestions are expected to appear in select markets, such as the US, starting in summer 2026.
Pride Luminance: New background image
iOS 26.5 introduces a new wallpaper called "Pride Luminance." The design features dynamically broken colors and is tailored to complement Apple's new Pride bands for the Apple Watch. The wallpaper is included in the update and can be activated via the wallpaper selection after installation. Apple traditionally releases new content for the Pride Collection in the spring, which includes digital watch faces, wallpapers, and physical watch bands.
Extended rights for third-party accessories in the EU
As part of the Digital Markets Act, Apple is expanding support for third-party wearables in the EU with iOS 26.5. Headphones and smartwatches from other manufacturers will, for the first time, gain access to features previously exclusive to Apple products. These include simplified Bluetooth pairing by proximity (similar to AirPods), receiving iPhone notifications, and, for the first time, synchronizing live activity. These changes are initially limited to the EU market.
New subscription options in the App Store
With iOS 26.5, Apple is introducing a new subscription model in the App Store. Developers can now offer monthly subscriptions with a 12-month commitment – a monthly payment option at a discounted annual price. Users pay monthly but are committed for a full year. This model is aimed at developers seeking a more flexible alternative to the traditional annual subscription.
Automatic Bluetooth pairing for Magic accessories
A minor but useful update concerns the Bluetooth pairing of the Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Mouse. When one of these devices is connected to an iPhone or iPad via USB-C, the Bluetooth connection remains active even after the device is disconnected. This eliminates the need for manual pairing through the settings.
No new Siri features
As was already evident during the beta phase, iOS 26.5 contains no new features for Siri. The expected AI upgrades - including personal context, screen recognition, and cross-app actions - are not included. Apple is likely to deliver these features with iOS 27, which is expected to be unveiled at WWDC 2026 on June 8.
Other systems
Alongside iOS 26.5, Apple also released the final versions of the following systems:
iPadOS 26.5 includes the same new features as iOS 26.5, supplemented by iPad-specific adjustments. macOS 26.5 ("Tahoe") also brings bug fixes and optimizations. watchOS 26.5 delivers, among other things, the new Pride watch face. tvOS 26.5 and visionOS 26.5 receive stability improvements and security patches.
iOS 26.5: The last major update before iOS 27
With iOS 26.5, Apple functionally concludes the development of iOS 26. The update doesn't introduce any major new features, but it does deliver a security-relevant innovation with RCS encryption and sets a strategically important course with the map changes. All eyes are now on WWDC 2026, where Apple is expected to unveil iOS 27 on June 8th. Early reports point to a revamped Siri with new AI capabilities, new AI features in the Photos app, and stricter network security.
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