Apple Launches iOS 26.5 with Encrypted RCS Messaging and New Features

Apple has officially released iOS 26.5, available for iPhone 11 models and newer, including the latest iPhone 17 series. Users can update via Settings > General > Software Update. The long-anticipated new version of Siri is not included in this release and is now expected to debut with iOS 27 at WWDC on June 8. A major highlight of iOS 26.5 is the introduction of end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, which will secure communications between iPhones and Android devices. Currently in beta, this feature requires carrier support and is gradually being rolled out. Encrypted conversations will be indicated by a new lock icon within RCS chats, with encryption enabled automatically over time. The update also brings security fixes for over 50 vulnerabilities, some critical, including kernel and WebKit issues, as well as sandbox escape threats. Additional features include a new ‘Pride Luminance’ wallpaper that dynamically reflects colors and an updated Maps app offering ‘Suggested Places’ based on local trends. For EU users, iOS 26.5 expands support for third-party wearables, allowing notifications and live activity displays previously exclusive to Apple devices. The update ranges from 1.61GB to over 13GB depending on the device’s current iOS version, with installation times varying accordingly.