One of the key highlights is an easier transfer process for users switching from Android devices, further simplifying Apple’s push to attract new iPhone users. The update is also expected to bring enhancements to Apple Maps, including smarter navigation tools and refinements designed to improve usability.
“This update introduces end-to-end encrypted RCS (beta) messaging and a downloadable Pride Luminance wallpaper, along with enhancements, bug fixes, and security updates for your iPhone,” Apple said in a blogpost.
Here’s what users can expect from the upcoming software release.
End-to-end RCS encryption
Apple first introduced E2EE for RCS between iPhones and Android devices in the iOS 26.4 beta, but later pulled it from the stable build.
E2EE ensures messages between supported iOS and Android devices stay private. Only the sender and recipient can read them, excluding any third party.
Suggested Places in Apple Maps
It recommends places using a user’s location and recent searches. The update lets US and Canadian businesses run ads in maps search results and at the top of Suggested Places.
New wallpapers and improved Android transferring options
iOS 26.5 adds easier pairing for Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad and Magic Mouse with iPhone or iPad. Plug in via USB-C once, and the accessory stays connected wirelessly as you use it. The update also includes new customizable wallpapers from the 2026 Pride Collection. Users can also choose 12 colors from a palette of 75 to create a personalized theme.
Another addition is iPhone-to-Android data transfer. Building on iOS 26.4’s improvements with Google, iOS 26.5 lets users move message attachments by time range, for example, last year, last 30 days or everything.
Looking forward, Apple is set to announce iOS 27 at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026 on June 8. The first developer beta version is expected on the same day.
(Edited by : Sudarsanaan Mani)
First Published: May 12, 2026 11:38 AM ist
