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iOS 26.5 release candidate is out now - Macworld
Image: Foundry Summary created by Smart Answers AIIn summary:Apple released a second release candidate for iOS 26.5 on May 8, 2026, with the wide release expected within the next week.Macworld reports this is a relatively minor update that doesn’t include anticipated major Siri improvements like enhanced foundation models or on-screen awareness.Key features include beta end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging for privacy, Apple Maps ads with personalized suggestions, and a new Pride Luminance wallpaper. The 26.4 updates brought with them a number of improvements across the various operating systems and Apple’s included apps. But they didn’t bring the expected, long overdue improvements to Siri: A new foundation model, on-screen awareness, personal context, and actions across apps. And we’re not getting those in iOS 26.5 either. Instead, this is a relatively minor release. Updated May 8, 2026: Apple has released a second release candidate for iOS and iPadOS 26.5, along with watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and others. The wide release is expected within the next week. This update brings ads and suggestions to Apple Maps, along with a beta of end-to-end encryption in RCS messages. This update includes the following enhancements: End-to-end encrypted RCS messaging (beta) in Messages is available with supported carriers and will roll out over time. For more information visit: https://support.apple.com/109526 Pride Luminance wallpaper that dynamically refracts a spectrum of colors, is available for download Suggested Places in Maps displays recommendations based on what’s trending nearby and your recent searches iOS 26.5 beta: How to install If you want to test the iOS 26 beta releases but are not a registered developer, follow these steps: Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID. Log in to the Beta Software Program. Click Enroll your iOS device. Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update. In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta. It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update. iOS 26.5: How to install the developer beta You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app: Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store. Open the app. Tap on Account. Sign in using your usual Apple ID. Find out everyth...
Apple releases iOS 26.5 RC 2 ahead of public launch - 9to5Mac
Apple has released a new RC (release candidate) build for iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 today, available now for developers and public beta testers. iOS 26.5 RC 2 available now for testing iOS 26.5 is expected to launch to all users next week. But before it does, Apple has one last pre-release build shipping today. Rolling out now is iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 RC 2. The previous RC build was version 23F75, and the new build is 23F77. What might have changed between RC updates? Don’t expect any new features or noticeable UI updates. Rather, Apple likely shipped a new RC because of bugs it discovered in the RC testing process that it needed to fix before the public launch. Even though every RC build is intended to be the final software version that ships to all users (thus the ‘Release Candidate’ name), it’s not unusual for Apple to ship a revised RC for additional testing. When iOS 26.5 does launch, it will include new iPhone features like RCS end-to-end encrypted messaging, a ‘Suggested Places’ feature in Apple Maps, a Pride Luminance wallpaper, and more. Have you noticed anything different in iOS 26.5 RC 2? Let us know in the comments. Best iPhone accessories AirPods Pro 3 (limited-time $199 price, down from $249) MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack 100W USB-C fast charging power adapter Apple’s new AirTag 2 (1-pack / 4-pack) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
iOS 26.5 Release Date: Will The New Beta Delay Your iPhone Update? - Forbes
The next iPhone update, iOS 26.5, is almost here, predicted to land on or around Monday, May 11. However, out of nowhere, Apple has just seeded a second release candidate beta to developers.
iOS 26.5 RC 2 Just Dropped: Changes Apple Didn't Mention
Apple just released iOS 26.5 RC 2 with important fixes, smoother performance, and hidden upgrades. See all changes before the public rollout.
