GoKawiilApple has released the third iOS 26.5 public beta. The previous public beta introduced a new splash screen that signaled the upcoming arrival of ads in Apple Maps.
iOS 26.5 features and changes
While there’s no Gemini-powered AI features, the 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.