The final version of Apple’s iOS 26.4 hasn’t even been out for a full week, and developers have already released the first version of the next beta build.
With iOS 26.5 beta 1 made available to developers on March 30 and public access expected shortly thereafter, I took a moment to examine the few updates included in the latest version of Apple’s flagship operating system.
Restoring RCS Encryption
Apple’s restoration of end-to-end Rich Communication Services (RCS) encryption is undoubtedly the biggest update contained within iOS 26.5 beta 1. While the feature was present in the earliest beta releases of 26.4, it was eventually removed in later versions. Instead, Apple announced their plans to include it in a future update… and it looks like that update is iOS 26.5.
The inclusion of end-to-end RCS encryption means that text messages, images, and files will be accessible only to the sender and the intended recipient. But it’s important to note that end-to-end RCS encryption might not be available on all devices or all carriers. The feature is also expected to roll out gradually, so some users might gain access before others.
End-to-end RCS encryption should be enabled by default once the latest beta has been downloaded and installed. If not, you can turn it on manually by opening the Settings menu, navigating to Messages>RCS Messaging, and enabling “End-To-End Encryption (Beta).”
Updating Apple Maps
According to Beta Profiles, Apple Maps has also been updated to include a list of “Suggested Places” when using the app. These suggestions will be based on nearby locations, current trends, and even your recent search history.
If Apple’s previous announcements are any indication, we might see paid advertisements in Apple Maps sooner rather than later. Although this hasn’t been confirmed for iOS 26.5 beta 1, Apple has already announced plans to incorporate ads into Apple Maps as early as this summer.
Looking forward to WWDC 2026 and iOS 27
For most, the release of iOS 26.5 was a bit underwhelming. Many iOS users were hoping to see updates to Siri and Apple Intelligence, which were teased as far back as 2024. Instead, their omission from iOS 26.5 beta 1 means we’ll likely have to wait until iOS 27, which could enter its own beta phase as early as July 2027.
Related reading: Beyond iOS updates, Apple is making a major shift away from the Mac Pro as it pivots toward the Mac Studio.
Read the full article here
