Apple is expected to release iOS 26.5 in May, based on the company’s previous rollout schedule for its .5 software updates.
Apple is currently beta testing iOS 26.5, with only the first beta available so far to developers and public beta testers.
One of the biggest changes in iOS 26.5 is the return of end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging. Apple first began testing the feature in iOS 26.4, but it did not make it into the final release. With iOS 26.5 beta 1, however, RCS encryption has returned to the Messages app and is enabled by default.
Apple is also preparing changes for the App Store. According to the company’s developer release notes, iOS 26.5 will allow developers to offer new purchase options, including monthly billing plans that come with a 12-month commitment.
The update also makes it easier to pair Apple accessories with iPhone. With iOS 26.5, users can connect a Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, or Magic Trackpad to their iPhone using USB-C, and the accessory will remain paired over Bluetooth once unplugged. Previously, users had to manually pair these accessories through the Settings app.
iOS 26.5 also appears to lay the groundwork for Apple Maps ads, which Apple announced last month would begin rolling out this summer.
New text discovered in the update says that “Maps may show local ads based on your approximate location, current search terms, or view of the map while you search.”
The update also introduces a new Suggested Places feature in Apple Maps. Apple says this will display recommendations based on trending nearby locations, recent searches, and other activity.
While iOS 26.5 is not expected to be a major feature-packed release, it looks set to introduce several notable changes ahead of Apple’s WWDC event in June.