Apple Releases iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 With End-to-End Encrypted RCS, New Wallpaper, and Maps Updates

Source: MacRumors

Apple today released iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5, the newest updates to the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 operating systems. The software arrives nearly two months after the release of iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4.

The update can be downloaded over‑the‑air on eligible iPhones and iPads via Settings > General > Software Update. Apple also released iOS 15.8.8, iOS 16.7.16, iOS 18.7.9, and iPadOS 17.7.11 for older devices that cannot run iOS 26 or iPadOS 26.

End‑to‑End Encrypted RCS Messaging

iOS 26.5 introduces end‑to‑end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages exchanged between iPhone and Android users. The feature is currently in beta and requires:

• Both participants to have carriers that support encrypted RCS (carriers will roll out support over time).
• A small lock symbol will appear on encrypted RCS messages, indicating they receive the same protection as iMessage.

For more details, see Apple’s support page: .

Maps Updates

The Maps app now includes a “Suggested Places” section that shows recommendations based on your location and recent searches. This release also lays the groundwork for ads in Maps, which are expected to appear later this summer.

New Pride Luminance Wallpaper

A new Pride Luminance wallpaper, matching the Pride Luminance Apple Watch face and band, is available for download. The wallpaper dynamically refracts a spectrum of colors.

Release Notes Summary

• End‑to‑end encrypted RCS messaging (beta) with supported carriers.
• Pride Luminance wallpaper with dynamic color refraction.
• Suggested Places in Maps with location‑based recommendations.

For the full list of security content, visit:
For feature availability by region and device, see:
For general information about software updates and their impact on performance or battery life, see:

Looking Ahead

iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 may be among the last feature‑focused updates for these platforms, as Apple shifts its attention to iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, which will be previewed at WWDC next month.