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Apple releases iOS 26.5 beta 3 for iPhone

2026-04-20 | original
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Why This Matters

The release of iOS 26.5 beta 3 highlights Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience with new features like 'Suggested Places' in Maps and expanded support for third-party accessories in Europe. These updates demonstrate Apple's focus on improving functionality, privacy, and integration, which can influence both consumer satisfaction and industry standards. As developers test encryption and new payment options, the update signals Apple's commitment to security and flexible subscription management.

Key Takeaways

Apple has released the second iOS 26.5 beta for developers. The previous beta introduced a new splash screen that signaled the upcoming arrival of ads in Apple Maps.

iOS 26.5 features and changes

While there are no Gemini-powered AI features, the iOS 26.5 update does include a few changes.

The most discoverable new feature in iOS 26.5 is included in Maps. The new “Suggested Places” feature is now part of search in Apple Maps.

Apple also continues to test end-to-end encryption for RCS in beta.

In Europe specifically, Apple is testing the ability to push Live Activities to third-party accessories.

iOS 26.5 may also support monthly payments for annual subscriptions at a discounted rate with commitment.

Check out 9to5Mac’s roundup of new features in iOS 26.5 to see some of the smaller changed spotted so far.

Explore topics: apple ios 26.5 apple maps rcs encryption live activities
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