iOS 26.5 Features: Everything New in iOS 26.5

Apple has released iOS 26.5, introducing a series of technical updates focused on messaging security, regulatory compliance in the European Union, and expanded system accessibility. While the update does not include the anticipated Siri features, which are being held for iOS 27, it implements significant changes to how iPhones interact with non-Apple devices.

The most prominent addition is the introduction of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages between iPhone and Android devices. This update brings the security level of cross-platform RCS texts in line with the encryption used for iMessages exchanged between Apple users.

For these encrypted conversations to function, both the sender and the receiver must use a carrier that supports the latest version of RCS. Apple noted that encrypted RCS messages will roll out over time across supported carriers.

The end-to-end encryption feature is enabled by default, though users can manage it via a toggle located in the Messages section of the Settings app. To provide visual confirmation of security, encrypted messages are marked with a small lock symbol.

Beyond messaging, iOS 26.5 includes a series of changes designed to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. These updates grant third-party wearables access to features that were previously exclusive to the Apple Watch and AirPods.

EU Interoperability and Wearable Support

The update introduces proximity pairing for third-party earbuds, allowing them to connect to an iPhone through a one-tap process similar to that of AirPods. This removes the requirement for multiple pairing steps for compatible third-party hardware.

Third-party smartwatches and accessories can now receive interactive notifications from the iPhone. Previously, these devices were limited to read-only notifications, but users can now view and react to notifications directly from the wearable.

Live Activities from the iPhone can now be displayed on supported third-party wearables, mirroring the functionality found on the Apple Watch.

Apple has implemented a limitation on notification routing, stating that notifications can only be forwarded to a single connected device at a time. Enabling notifications for a third-party wearable will disable notifications on the Apple Watch.

These interoperability features are limited to iPhone users located in the European Union who have an Apple account set to an EU country or region. Because accessory makers must add their own support for these updates, the features may not be available immediately for all devices.

System Improvements and App Updates

The Maps app now features a Suggested Places tool, which provides recommendations for locations to visit based on trending nearby data and the user’s recent search history. The update also establishes the underlying framework for advertisements within the Maps app, although those ads are not yet live.

For users transitioning away from the ecosystem, iOS 26.5 adds a new setting for iPhone-to-Android transfers. Users can now select specifically which message attachments to transfer, with options to move all attachments or limit the transfer to those from the last 30 days or one year.

Other quality-of-life updates include:

• Customization: A new Pride Luminance wallpaper with multiple customizable color options.
• Accessibility: The addition of an Inuktitut keyboard layout option.
• Apple Books: References to new awards, which are expected to be used for year-end wrap-ups.

Security and Vulnerability Patches

From a cybersecurity perspective, iOS 26.5 addresses more than 50 vulnerabilities. Apple has not indicated that any of these vulnerabilities have been actively exploited in the wild, but the company recommends that users update their devices as soon as possible to ensure they have the latest protections.