Apple Releases iOS 26.5 Beta 2 and iPadOS 26.5 Beta 2 to Developers [Download]

Apple has seeded the second developer betas of iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 for testing. The update carries build number 23F5054h and arrives 10 days after the company pushed out a revised version of the initial beta.



This release builds on features Apple has been testing throughout the spring. The Maps app remains a key focus in this update, with a new Suggested Places tool that analyzes recent searches and nearby trends to recommend nearby destinations. The beta also retains the code needed to support sponsored listings in Maps search results, a change Apple expects to roll out broadly this summer.


Apple is continuing its work on security for cross-platform messaging. The beta reintroduces testing of end-to-end encryption for RCS conversations between iPhone and Android users. This ensures messages and media sent to non-Apple devices remain secure and cannot be intercepted. While the toggle is enabled by default in this build, Apple previously removed it from the final iOS 26.4 release, suggesting it is still undergoing validation.

In the European Union, iOS 26.5 introduces significant interoperability changes for third-party accessories. These include AirPods-like proximity pairing for third-party earbuds and the ability to forward notifications and Live Activities to non-Apple smartwatches. These changes are part of Apple's efforts to comply with the Digital Markets Act, though the features are currently limited to the EU.

Other changes include a more streamlined Bluetooth pairing process for Magic accessories when connected via USB-C and more granular control over message attachments when using the Transfer to Android utility.

Notably, the release does not include the expected generative AI upgrades for Siri. With WWDC26 scheduled for June 8, it appears Apple is holding its most advanced assistant features for the unveiling of iOS 27.


Registered developers can download the update from the Software Update section in Settings.