Apple Officially Releases iOS 26.5 With Encrypted RCS and New Maps Features [Download]

Apple has officially released iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 to the public, bringing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, new discovery features in Apple Maps, and a dynamic Pride wallpaper to the iPhone and iPad.



The updates arrive nearly two months after the release of iOS 26.4. The standout feature in iOS 26.5 is the addition of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages exchanged between iPhone and Android users. For the encryption to work, both participants must be on a supported carrier, with compatibility expected to roll out gradually over time. Encrypted threads will display a small lock symbol to confirm the conversation is secure, matching the privacy protections found in iMessage.


Apple Maps gains a new Suggested Places section that highlights nearby recommendations based on a user's location and recent searches. This addition lays the groundwork for sponsored local advertisements, which Apple plans to roll out to the platform this summer.

Users can also select a new Pride Luminance wallpaper that dynamically refracts a spectrum of colors across the screen. The design coordinates with the 2026 Pride Collection watch face and Sport Loop band released earlier this month. You can review the full changelog in our iOS 26.5 Release Notes.

You can install the software over the air through the Software Update menu in the Settings app. For those who prefer a manual installation, direct download links are available on our iPhone Firmware and iPad Firmware pages. You can also quickly locate the exact file you need using the iClarified IPSW Wizard.