Apple Releases 26.5 Updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS

Apple has just released the 26.5 updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS, and the main new feature is end-to-end encryption support for RCS messages. This is something that has been available for years on Android devices via the Google Messages app, and iMessage on iPhones also supports end-to-end encryption. But now, RCS messages between Android and iPhone users can be encrypted as well.

End-to-end encrypted RCS messaging is available in beta on iOS 26.5, and only with supported carriers. In the US, AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile already support the feature, and you can find the full list of supported carriers around the world on this page.

“Google and Apple have led a cross-industry effort to bring end-to-end encryption to Rich Communication Services (RCS), making the cross-platform messaging format that replaces traditional SMS more secure and private,” Google said today. “Google Messages users will know a cross-platform conversation is end-to-end encrypted when they see the same lock icon previously used in RCS chats.”

iOS 26.5 also introduces the following new features :

Suggested places in Apple Maps: When searching for a place in Apple Maps, the app will now recommend nearby locations based on recent searches and more.

Bluetooth accessory pairing: When plugging in wireless accessories such as Apple’s Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad, they will automatically remain connected via Bluetooth.

Live Activities support for third-party accessories: This new feature, which will only be available in the EU, will allow third-party accessories to receive and display notifications and Live Activities from an iPhone.

New App Store purchase option: iPhone users outside the US will get the option to pay monthly for annual subscriptions with a 12-month commitment.

A new Pride Luminance wallpaper that dynamically refracts a spectrum of colors is also available on iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and watchOS 26.5. Apple Watch users are also getting a new Pride Luminance watchface with unique customization options. The update also fixes an issue causing messages to use SMS instead of iMessage when paired with a dual-SIM iPhone.