Apple has officially launched iOS 26.5, bringing a series of noteworthy updates to the iPhone. In addition to the three core functions, this version also adds a new “Pride Luminance” background image, multiple system adjustments and region-limited changes to make the overall user experience more complete. Apple pointed out in the update notes that the highlights of iOS 26.5 include end-to-end encrypted RCS messages (beta), downloadable dynamic backgrounds, as well as multiple performance improvements, bug fixes and security updates for iPhone.
iOS 26.5 is officially launched with three important improvements
Three major changes
- RCS messaging (beta) officially launched
The Messages app is getting a major upgrade, with iOS 26.5 enabling end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging on supported carriers, with support continuing to expand. RCS provides a richer messaging experience than traditional SMS, including high-definition media, read status, and more reliable transmission quality. Although it is still in beta, this means that the cross-platform messaging experience between iPhone and Android is gradually improving.
Image source: 9to5Mac - Pride bright background picture open for download
This year’s Pride-themed wallpaper uses dynamic refraction spectrum colors as the core design, presenting a distinct light and shadow effect. Users can directly download and apply it in iOS 26.5 to add a more symbolic visual style to the main screen.
- Apple Maps adds “Recommended Places”
The search interface of the map application has added a “recommended places” function, which will provide two real-time suggestions based on nearby popular places and the user’s search history. This design will not interfere with the original search process, but can effectively improve search efficiency. Apple also mentioned that these recommendation fields may include promotional content (such as advertisements) in the future.
Image source: 9to5Mac
More noteworthy updates
The changes in iOS 26.5 are not limited to the three features mentioned above. Apple Maps is expected to start showing ads in search results in the United States and Canada this summer, which will be an important step in the commercialization of the map service.
On the App Store, iOS 26.5 also fully supports the new “12-month contract, monthly payment” subscription model. This plan allows users to enjoy discounts on annual subscriptions at a lower monthly fee without having to pay for the entire year at once. Although this feature has been launched globally in iOS 26.4, it needs to be updated to iOS 26.5 to use it in the United States.
In addition, Apple has also adjusted some behaviors of the Reminders app; Smart Mouse, Smart Keyboard, and Smart Trackpad will now automatically pair via Bluetooth after being connected via USB-C, simplifying the setup process.
In the EU, iOS 26.5 adds more adjustments to comply with local regulations, including support for third-party accessories to forward real-time activity data when necessary. In Brazil, this update also seems to lay the foundation for future sideloading support, showing that Apple is gradually adjusting the openness of iOS in response to local regulatory requirements.
With iOS 26.5 now online, the next focus will be on the upcoming iOS 27. Apple is expected to officially announce this major update at WWDC 2026 on June 8 and release the first developer beta version on the same day. Less than a month before the launch, the outside world is also beginning to look forward to how Apple will further promote the software experience of the iPhone.
Source: KOCPC Chinese