Apple releases iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 RC 2

9 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · May 8

The new developer and public beta build is version 23F77, replacing RC 1 build 23F75 ahead of an expected public release next week.
Apple likely issued the revised release candidate to fix bugs found during testing rather than add new features or visible interface changes.
When launched widely, iOS 26.5 is set to add RCS end-to-end encrypted messaging, Suggested Places in Apple Maps and a Pride Luminance wallpaper.

Is Apple's new RCS support a genuine move toward openness or just a minimal response to regulatory pressure?

What hidden costs await businesses that delay the mandatory device management upgrade forced by iOS 26?

As Apple introduces ads to Maps, can it monetize location data while upholding its famous privacy promises?