Apple has released the second developer beta versions of iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5, two weeks after the first beta releases. These updates introduce a "Suggested Places" feature in Apple Maps, continue testing of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, and include new functionalities for third-party wearables in the European Union. The beta versions do not include new Siri capabilities.
Software Features
Apple Maps
The Maps app now includes a "Suggested Places" feature. This function recommends two nearby locations to the user based on trending places and recent search history. One of the suggested slots is designated for potential future advertisements.
Apple is developing infrastructure to support localized advertisements within the Apple Maps app, planned to launch in the United States and Canada starting in the summer of 2025. Ads are expected to appear at the top of search results and within the Suggested Places list. According to Apple, advertisements will be clearly labeled, and user location data and ad interactions will not be linked to a user's Apple Account.
RCS Messaging
Apple is testing end-to-end encryption for RCS (Rich Communication Services) messages between iPhone and Android users. This feature was previously included in the iOS 26.4 beta but was removed before the public release of that version. In the current beta, encrypted RCS conversations require compatible carriers on both ends. The feature is enabled by default for supported messages, which are indicated by a lock symbol.
Siri
The second developer beta does not include new Siri capabilities. Reports indicate that the anticipated AI-powered Siri updates are not expected until the release of iOS 27.
European Union Testing
In compliance with the European Union's Digital Markets Act, Apple is testing new functionalities for third-party wearable devices. These features include:
- Proximity pairing for devices such as earbuds and smartwatches.
- Notification forwarding from an iPhone to third-party smartwatches. Notifications are forwarded to only one device at a time.
- Display of Live Activities from an iPhone on third-party wearable devices.
These features are designed to allow third-party wearables to have functionality similar to Apple Watch and AirPods.
They require support from the accessory manufacturer and are limited to iPhone users in the European Union with an EU-based Apple Account.
App Store
The iOS 26.5 beta includes a new subscription billing option for developers. This option, described as a "monthly with 12-month commitment" plan, allows users to pay for annual subscriptions in 12 monthly installments. This plan may offer a discounted rate compared to standard monthly subscriptions.
Availability
Registered developers can download the second beta versions of iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 through the Settings app on compatible devices by navigating to General > Software Update. A public beta version has also been released following the developer beta.
Background & Additional Details
Apple previously released a revised version of the first iOS 26.5 developer beta (build 23F5043k) to address bugs or security vulnerabilities. A new dynamic Pride Luminance wallpaper, which refracts a spectrum of colors with customizable options, is included in the update.
Apple also released iOS 26.4.1 to fix an iCloud syncing bug that affected applications using the CloudKit framework. This bug caused iPhones and iPads running iOS 26.4.0 to stop receiving iCloud change notifications, impacting data synchronization for both Apple's Passwords app and third-party applications. This issue had already been resolved in the iOS 26.5 beta.