iOS 26.5 beta 1 is now available for developers, and while Apple still has not added the delayed Siri upgrades, the update includes a long list of smaller changes across Maps, Messages, interoperability features in the EU, accessories, and keyboard support.
What’s New In iOS 26.5 Beta 1
iOS 26.5 beta 1 was released a week after the company seeded the final version of iOS 26.4 to the public. The update is quite major in terms of what it will bring to the table, and if you’re interested in checking out all the new features, we have compiled them all below.
Suggested Places In Apple Maps
Apple has added a new Suggested Places feature in Maps, which will recommend locations based on trending nearby spots and your recent searches. Furthermore, Apple also says that ads will appear here once Maps ads launch.
Ads In Apple Maps
iOS 26.5 beta 1 also lays the groundwork for ads in Maps, according to code in the beta. Maps may show local ads based on your approximate location, current search terms, or the area of the map you are viewing, with ads clearly labeled.
End-to-End Encryption In RCS
Apple has re-enabled end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iPhone and Android users. The feature was tested in the iOS 26.4 beta but did not make the cut in the final release. In iOS 26.5 beta 1, the feature extension has been enabled by default.
Magic Accessories Over USB-C
When a Magic Keyboard or a similar accessory is connected to an iPhone over USB-C, the iPhone can now automatically establish a Bluetooth connection with the accessory.
iPhone To Android Message Attachment Transfer
There is also a new option for transferring message attachments when moving from iPhone to Android. Users can choose to transfer attachments from All, 1 Year, or 30 days.
Apple Books Awards Mentions
Apple has added mentions of new awards in the Apple Books app.
Inuktitut Keyboard Layout
iOS 26.5 beta 1 also adds support for an Inuktitut keyboard layout.
European Union Wearable Changes
Apple is continuing work on DMA-related interoperability features in the EU, and the beta includes these wearable-related additions:
- Proximity pairing: Third-party accessories like earbuds can pair with iPhone or iPad through a simpler one-tap process.
- Notifications: Third-party wearables can receive iPhone notifications, though forwarding works to one connected device at a time.
- Live Activities: Live Activities can now sync to third-party wearables, and this appears to be new in iOS 26.5 beta 1.
These are all the new features and extensions in iOS 26.5 beta 1. The developer beta is available right now, so if you want to test the new additions out yourself, you can do so. Moreover, you also have to consider that the update is still under testing, and the company could add or drop features in subsequent beta updates. These are some of the last few updates before the company announces iOS 27 to the public with a dedicated Siri app at its WWDC 2026 event. Share your expectations with us in the comments below.
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