Apple Prepares Apple Maps Ads and RCS Encryption in iOS 26.5 Beta Release

11 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · Apr 13

Apple has released the second beta of iOS 26.5, introducing groundwork for ads and a new Suggested Places feature in Apple Maps.
The update also brings back end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging and enhances interoperability with third-party wearables, especially in Europe.
Expected for public release in May, iOS 26.5 is the final major update before iOS 27, focusing on performance, stability, and user experience improvements.

When can Android and iPhone users expect fully stable, encrypted RCS messaging?

Will iOS 27's "Snow Leopard" stability focus hinder its promised AI revolution?

What transformative multitasking capabilities will iOS 27 bring for the rumored foldable iPhone?

How will Apple's privacy-first Maps ads truly impact user experience and business competition?

How will the new Apple Business platform redefine enterprise device management and app distribution?

Can the dedicated Siri app, powered by Gemini, finally deliver a truly intelligent conversational AI?