Two new features are coming to Apple Maps with the release of iOS 26.5 — that is, if you consider the introduction of ads on the platform a

Apple’s iOS 26.5 release candidate points to RCS encryption, Maps ad changes, EU device support, and App Store subscription updates.

Apple’s iOS 26.5 update adds encrypted texting, eight emojis, accessibility updates and fresh Apple Music features for iPhone users. See what's new.

Apple has officially released iOS 26.5 for iPhone users, introducing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging support in beta, a new dynamic Pride wallpaper, and smarter Apple Maps recommendations. The update also includes several behind-the-scenes improvements ahead of Apples expected iOS 27 reveal at WWDC 2026 next month.

Apple has released the iOS 26.5 update for iPhone users with features including encrypted RCS messaging, Apple Maps suggestions, new App Store subscriptions, easier accessory pairing, and improved Android transfer tools.

OS 26.5 might be the last update before WWDC26. This shouldn’t be a big deal, as iOS 26.5 has been a smooth release by most accounts. The update comes late in Apple’s annual