Abstract created by Sensible Solutions AI
In abstract:
- Macworld reviews iOS 26.5 introduces encrypted RCS messaging as a beta function, enabling safe communication between iPhone and Android customers by means of main carriers.
- The replace brings third-party app marketplaces to Brazil following regulatory adjustments, whereas including sponsored enterprise areas to Apple Maps search outcomes.
- New options embrace simplified USB-C pairing for Magic equipment and a customizable ‘Delight Luminance’ wallpaper with dynamic coloration results.
With WWDC lower than a month away, Apple has formally launched iOS 26.5 to all iPhone customers, and whereas it isn’t a serious replace, it introduces many long-awaited tweaks and enhancements, in addition to new choices for customizing the look of your iPhone or iPad.
From encrypted RCS messages to controversial adjustments in Maps and a fantastic new Delight wallpaper, right here’s all the things new in iOS 26.5.
Encrypted RCS messaging
One of the crucial notable additions in iOS 26.5 is help for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging within the Messages app. Whereas it’s nonetheless technically labeled as a beta function and restricted to supported carriers, it’s step one towards iPhone customers with the ability to chat securely with their Android associates.
Apple had beforehand examined encrypted RCS through the iOS 26.4 beta cycle, however the function didn’t make it into the final launch. Now, it’s formally rolling out to customers.
iOS 26.5 brings encryption to RCS messages for the primary time.
Foundry
RCS already brings iMessage-like enhancements akin to higher media high quality, typing indicators, and skim receipts when messaging Android customers. With end-to-end encryption, Apple is closing one of many greatest privateness gaps between iPhone and cross-platform conversations.
That mentioned, availability will differ relying on provider help, so not everybody will see it immediately. Nevertheless, all three main carriers (Verizon, AT&T, and T-Cellular) are already beta-testing it, so it shouldn’t be lengthy. You possibly can allow encrypted RCS messages by going to Settings > Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging.
Delight Luminance wallpaper
As a part of its annual Delight assortment, Apple is introducing a brand new “Delight Luminance” wallpaper in iOS 26.5. There’s nothing new about that—Apple has launched a brand new wallpaper to have a good time Delight Month for years—however this yr’s design takes it to a brand new degree.
Delight Luminance isn’t only a static background. The wallpaper dynamically refracts colours as you progress or unlock your iPhone, making a delicate animated impact.
Apple’s Delight Luminance wallpaper is as customizable as it’s attractive.
Foundry
Extra curiously, it’s extremely customizable. Customers can create their very own model of the wallpaper by selecting from as much as 12 completely different colours, making it some of the versatile system wallpapers Apple has ever made.
Not solely that, however Apple Watch customers can even discover a new Delight Luminance watch face in watchOS 26.5 that completely matches the brand new wallpaper.
Apple Maps will get Steered Locations (and adverts)
iOS 26.5 paves the best way for adverts in Apple’s Maps app.
Foundry
iOS 26.5 additionally introduces a brand new “Steered Locations” function in Apple Maps. This part reveals suggestions based mostly on what’s trending close by, alongside along with your current searches. On the floor, it’s a discovery function designed to assist customers discover new eating places, retailers, and factors of curiosity.
However it additionally marks one thing extra vital: the introduction of adverts in Apple Maps.
Companies can now pay to have their areas promoted in search outcomes, that means a few of the solutions you see could also be sponsored. Based on the corporate, privateness stays a prime precedence. Advertisements gained’t be linked to customers, and advertisers gained’t have the ability to goal particular teams of customers, Apple guarantees.
Apple hasn’t made an enormous deal about this in its launch notes, however it represents a notable shift for the platform.
Simpler accent pairing by way of USB-C
Pairing your Magic equipment with an iPhone or iPad is slightly simpler in iOS 26.5.
Foundry
One other small however very sensible enchancment is a brand new method to pair Apple equipment such because the Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard.
With iOS 26.5, you’ll be able to merely join these units to your iPhone or iPad utilizing a USB-C cable, they usually’ll robotically pair. After that, you’ll be able to disconnect the cable, they usually proceed working wirelessly over Bluetooth.
It’s a easy change, however one which removes friction, particularly for customers who depend on these equipment with a number of units.
Enhancements for switching from iPhone to Android
Following the introduction of a brand new instrument that makes it simpler to switch knowledge from an iPhone to an Android machine with iOS 26.3, Apple is now giving customers slightly extra selection.
With iOS 26.5, the iPhone-to-Android switch course of now lets customers select which message attachments they need to hold for extra management over what will get moved, as an alternative of forcing a full switch of all media.
EU-exclusive options proceed to broaden
As anticipated, iOS 26.5 contains further region-specific adjustments for the European Union.
With this replace, customers can mirror not solely notifications but additionally Dwell Actions to non-Apple units. iOS 26.5 additionally extends the identical AirPods quick-pairing expertise to third-party equipment.
Sadly, since it is a requirement below EU regulation, these options aren’t obtainable to iPhone customers in the remainder of the world.
App marketplaces are coming to Brazil
Customers in Brazil will quickly have the ability to entry third-party app marketplaces.
Foundry
Following related adjustments within the EU and Japan, iOS 26.5 lays the groundwork for various app marketplaces in Brazil.
Whereas the function isn’t stay for customers but, the replace contains the mandatory system help for third-party app distribution outdoors the App Retailer. Meaning iPhone customers in Brazil will quickly have the ability to obtain apps from various app shops, one other worldwide change pushed by native regulatory adjustments.
Replace your iPhone proper now
Along with these options, iOS 26.5 additionally contains bug fixes, efficiency enhancements, and safety updates. That’s why it’s all the time necessary to maintain your units up to date with the most recent software program.
That mentioned, that is possible the final iOS 26 replace forward of WWDC 2026, the place Apple is predicted to present a sneak peek at what’s coming in iOS 27.
You possibly can set up iOS 26.5 by going to Settings > Common > Software program Replace. The replace is on the market for iPhone 11 and later.
