Apple releases iOS 26.5 with RCS encryption, Apple Maps ads, new Pride wallpaper, more

Apple has released iOS 26.5, bringing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, ads in Apple Maps, a new Pride Luminance wallpaper, and other updates.

According to Apple’s release notes, end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in the Messages app is now available with supported carriers and will roll out over time. Apple has also published a list of carriers that support the feature on its website, meaning availability will vary depending on network support.

iOS 26.5 also introduces ads in the Apple Maps app. Apple previously said in March that localized ads would begin rolling out in the U.S. and Canada this summer, and the feature is now live. The company says ads can appear at the top of search results based on relevance, as well as within a new Suggested Places experience that surfaces recommendations based on trends, recent searches, and nearby activity.

Alongside these changes, Apple has added a new Pride Luminance wallpaper for iPhone, continuing its annual Pride collection.