After releasing iOS 26.4 last week, Apple has now kicked off testing for the next update. The iOS 26.5 Beta 1 is currently available for developers and is expected to roll out to public beta users soon. The first beta update brings a few new features and changes.
Today, Apple has also released some other beta updates, including iPadOS 26.5 Beta 1, watchOS 26.5 Beta 1, tvOS 26.5 Beta 1, macOS 26.5 Beta 1, HomePodOS 26.5 Beta 1, and visionOS 26.5 Beta 1.
The first iOS 26.5 beta carries the build number 23F5043g. Since it’s the first beta, the update size is expected to exceed 5GB on most models, so it’s recommended to download it over Wi-Fi.
iOS 26.5 Beta 1 brings back end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging. In the Messages app, you’ll now see encryption badges indicating whether messages are encrypted or not. This feature is still in beta, so it may not work consistently. This is the biggest highlight of this beta.
Notification Forwarding is also back in this beta that allows forwarding notifications to third party devices like smartwatches. Apple Maps gets a small tweak as well, with the search UI now showing suggested places, which might be the part of the preparation for upcoming Ads placement. Apart from these changes, the first beta also fixes several bugs.
If you’ve an eligible model, you can apply for the iOS 26.5 Beta. To do this, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates. Once you select the beta and navigate back to software update, the beta update will appear immediately. Before installing the update, it is recommended to backup your device.
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