Beta version of the update is available for developers in a month Now, iPhone users are being given a great idea what new features expect. However, as we’ve seen in previous iOS updates, features are often added or removed until the public version launches – so now we know what’s the news in iOS 26.5.
First things first, iPhone users need to update their devices to iOS 26.5. In addition to new features, updating to the latest OS ensures that your device is protected with the latest security updates. To upgrade to iOS 26.5, simply go to Settings, then tap on General, followed by Software Update.
Users must have an iPhone 11 or newer to download and install iOS 26.5 on their devices.
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RCS end-to-end encryption
After updating to iOS 26.5, users will see a lock icon in RCS chat.
Credit: Apple
It’s official. After being tested in previous beta versions of iOS but failing to make the final release, encrypted RCS messaging is here.
RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is basically the messaging protocol that provides an Apple Messages-like experience when iPhone users and Android users text each other. It provides iPhone and Android devices with the ability to send and receive high-quality media, as well as view read receipts and typing indicators.
However, before this update, these messages between iPhone and Android devices were unencrypted, meaning they could potentially be intercepted and read by unauthorized third parties.
iOS 26.5 finally brings encryption to RCS messaging. However, it should be noted that even though this feature has been included in the public release of iOS 26.5, encrypted RCS messages are still labeled as a beta feature by Apple. Availability of the feature also depends on your mobile carrier.
Yes, green chat bubbles remain.
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Apple Maps ads and suggested locations
Nearly 13 and a half years after Apple launched its own Maps application, ads have made their way onto Apple Maps. (At the time of this writing, this feature is still labeled as “coming soon” on the Apple advertising website.)
Businesses will now be able to pay to advertise in the Apple Maps app, just as app developers can run ads in Apple’s App Store. Users will see local ads in the Maps app based on their location.
Ads will also appear in another brand new Apple Maps feature called Suggested Places.
Apple is recruiting advertisers for Apple Maps ads.
Credit: Apple
While Suggested Places in Apple Maps will provide recommendations to users based on paid ads, it will also offer organic recommendations. Suggested Places will show users nearby trending places, such as restaurants, shops or tourist spots, based on their recent search results.
USB-C Accessory Pairing
Do you want to use Magic Mouse or Magic Keyboard with your iPhone? With iOS 26.5 it’s easier than ever.
Simply connect the peripheral device to the iPhone via USB-C, and the device will automatically pair with the iPhone.
This means that after initial pairing, users can simply unplug the USB-C cable and use the Magic Mouse or Magic Keyboard with their iPhone over Bluetooth without additional setup required.
iPhone to Android Transfer Options
It’s a small new update, but it will definitely be welcomed by iPhone users switching to Android.
With iOS 26.5, users can now choose which message attachments they want to transfer to their Android device when moving data from their iPhone.
‘Pride Luminance’ Wallpaper
New Pride Luminance backgrounds for iPad and iPhone.
Credit: Apple
iOS 26.5 launches with brand new iPhone wallpapers celebrating Pride Month.
Apple has released the first Pride Month wallpaper. However, this is the first time that Apple has released something in the form of motion wallpapers. This is not a static background. The “Pride Luminance” wallpaper is animated and customizable, meaning users can create their own version of the wallpaper using the 12 available colors.
New Pride Luminance wallpaper that matches the new Pride Luminance watch face for Apple Watch in watchOS 26.5.
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