GoKawiilApple released the second public beta of iOS 26.5 on Tuesday, about three weeks after the company released the massive iOS 26.4 update, which included new emoji, video podcasts and more. The iOS 26.5 beta brings a few smaller -- but significant -- changes to the iPhones of developers and beta testers, including a screen in Maps heralding ads in the app and end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging.
Apple/Screenshot by CNET
Because this is a beta, I recommend downloading it only on something other than your primary device. This isn't the final version of iOS 26.5, so the update might be buggy and battery life may be shortened, so it's best to keep those troubles on a secondary device.
Also, since this isn't the final version of iOS 26.5, Apple could add more features to the update before it arrives on your iPhone.
Here are some features developers and beta testers can try now, and what could land on your iPhone when Apple releases iOS 26.5.
Ads could arrive in Maps soon
If you open your Maps app after downloading the iOS 26.5 beta, you'll see a new splash screen that announces the arrival of ads in the app.
Apple/Screenshot by CNET
"Maps may show local ads based on your approximate location, current search terms, or view of the map while you search," Apple says. "For your privacy, advertising information is not linked to your Apple Account."
Apple announced Apple Business in March, allowing companies to connect with customers via some of Apple's first-party apps, such as Mail and Wallet. Apple Business also lets companies place local ads in Maps. So you could start seeing ads in Maps for the coffee shop down the street from your home.
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