Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.5 for eligible iPhones, bringing a mix of small feature updates and some background improvements. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the update reportedly doesn’t include the anticipated Siri upgrades, but it introduces tweaks across Apple Maps, messaging, App Store billing, and more. The build (23F5043g) is currently limited to developers, with a public beta expected soon. Here’s a closer look at what’s new in the update:
iOS 26.5 developer beta 1: What’s new
Apple Maps: As per the report, one of the more visible additions in iOS 26.5 developer beta 1 is a new “Suggested Places” feature in Apple Maps. This tool shows recommendations based on what’s trending nearby, along with your recent searches. The feature appears directly in the search tab inside the Maps app, making it easier to discover nearby locations without typing specific queries.
Ads in Maps: Apple is reportedly preparing for ads in Maps. According to 9To5Mac, the update includes backend changes that suggest Maps could show local ads based on your location, search activity, or what you’re viewing on the map. This aligns with Apple’s earlier announcement that ads would arrive in Maps sometime this year.
RCS encryption: Apple is once again testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages in iOS 26.5 developer beta 1. The feature was first seen in iOS 26.4 beta but didn’t make it to the final release. With this update, encryption is back in testing, though it’s still unclear whether it will be included in the public rollout.
New App Store subscription options: The update also hints at changes in how subscriptions work on the App Store. Developers may get the option to offer monthly billing plans tied to a 12-month commitment. Apple hasn’t shared full details yet, so it’s not entirely clear how this will work for users or developers.
EU-specific features in testing
In the European Union, Apple continues testing features tied to third-party accessories. These include support for Live Activities on external devices, along with improvements to notifications and proximity pairing. There’s no confirmation yet on when these features will roll out publicly or which accessories will support them.
Others
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Accessories like Magic Keyboard, Mouse, and Trackpad now stay connected via Bluetooth when plugged in, and there’s a new Inuktitut keyboard. -
Apple Books may get a “Year in Review 2026” feature with reading badges. -
Additionally, when transferring data from iPhone to Android, users now get more control over how long message attachments are shared.
iOS 26.5 developer beta 1: Eligible models
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iPhone Air -
iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max -
iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e -
iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max -
iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max -
iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max -
iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max -
iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max -
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
iOS 26.5 developer beta 1: How to update
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Sign in to Apple Developer website and enroll for the iOS 26 beta program -
Make sure that your iPhone is signed in with the Apple Account you used to sign into to the Apple Developer website -
On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update -
Go to ‘Beta Updates’ and choose iOS 26 developer beta -
When iOS 26.5 developer beta is available for your iPhone, install it from Software Update.
