Apple has now released iOS 26.5 beta 2 for iPhone. The update came out on April 13, 2026. This version is available for both developers and public beta testers.
iOS 26.5 is a small update. It does not bring any major new Apple Intelligence or Siri features. Instead, it focuses on small improvements, bug fixes, and a few useful changes.
What’s New in iOS 26.5 Beta 2
The biggest new addition is in the Apple Maps app. When you search for something, you will now see a “Suggested Places” section. It shows popular or trending spots near you. This feature may also lay the groundwork for future ads in Maps.
Other changes include:
- Apple is still testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages. This will make chats with Android users more secure.
- In the European Union, Apple is testing the option to send Live Activities to third-party smartwatches and accessories.
- A possible new subscription option for apps that lets users pay monthly for yearly plans at a discounted rate.
The update also brings general performance improvements and stability fixes to make your iPhone run smoother.
How to Install
- If you are a developer, download it from the Apple Developer website.
- Public beta users can check for the update in Settings > General > Software Update.
Remember, beta software can have bugs. It is safer to test it on a secondary iPhone if you use your main phone for daily work.
Apple is expected to release the final version of iOS 26.5 to everyone in the coming weeks, likely in May 2026.
This small update helps keep iPhones stable while Apple works on bigger changes planned for iOS 27 later this year.