The iOS 26.5 beta cycle has started, and although the initial developer beta from yesterday did not show any improvements to Siri, it seems like we will have to wait until iOS 27 for a smarter built-in voice assistant. However, there are still some interesting things on the horizon for iOS 26.5.
While these upcoming features may not be as groundbreaking as a “Siri 2.0” update would have been, typically by the time a “.5” release rolls around, there isn’t much left to add. Based on past release patterns, once iOS 26.5 is officially released, iOS 27 could be just around the corner at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).
Although the major iOS update won’t be available to the public until September, Apple usually shifts its focus to software engineering efforts for the upcoming release by this time of the year, leaving the current release in a maintenance mode.
Securing RCS Messaging
One anticipated feature that could be introduced in iOS 26.5 is RCS Encryption, which Apple was testing during the previous beta cycle. The End-to-End Encryption toggle for RCS Messaging was added in the initial iOS 26.4 beta, but it was clarified in the developer release notes that it would not be included in iOS 26.4. While beta 1 limited RCS encryption to iPhone messages, beta 2 expanded it to include Android devices. However, by beta 4, the toggle was removed as Apple finalized the release.
Now, with iOS 26.5, RCS Encryption is back, and the developer release notes do not mention it as a temporary feature. While the toggle is active in the beta, the absence of any mention in the official release notes suggests that Apple may still be undecided on its readiness for the public release.
It’s important to note that Apple’s work on RCS E2EE is just one part of the puzzle. Google also needs to transition to Messaging Layer Security (MLS) for secure communication between iPhones and Android devices over RCS. Google is actively working on this, but it may require updates to the Android OS and Google Messages app.
Other Changes in iOS 26.5 Beta 1
Aside from RCS encryption, there are several minor changes in the latest beta release. Apple’s developer notes primarily focus on fixes and backend APIs, but here are some highlights:
- Apple Maps: Introduces a new Suggested Places feature based on recent searches and trending locations.
- Auto-pairing for Apple’s Magic Accessories: Simplifies Bluetooth pairing for Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad by connecting directly to an iPhone via USB-C.
- iPhone to Android Transfer: Allows selective transfer of message attachments within a specified time range.
- Apple Books: Prepares for a new awards feature to recognize reading accomplishments.
- App Store Subscriptions: Offers annual billing options for monthly commitments.
- Inuktitut keyboard layout: A new keyboard layout addition.
Additionally, iOS 26.5 beta introduces features to comply with EU regulations for third-party hardware connectivity, such as smartwatches. While previous releases hinted at these features, including AirPods-style proximity pairing and notifications for other smartwatches, their inclusion in the final iOS 26.5 release is not guaranteed.
