Developers can begin testing the upcoming iOS 26.5 release. Earlier this week, Apple released the iOS 26.5 beta for developers, revealing the changes included in the release. Most changes are minor, but here’s what early adopters have noticed so far.
**iOS 26.5 beta: A notable absence**
As Apple prepares the much-anticipated AI version of Siri, powered by Google Gemini, developers and journalists are closely monitoring each new iOS update. However, there is no sign of the new Gemini-powered Siri in this beta. Apple will likely introduce it with iOS 27.
**iOS 26.5 beta: What’s new**
This release brings visible changes within Apple Maps. Previously reported rumors suggested that advertisements would soon be coming to Apple Maps, and it appears Apple is paving the way for these ads in the iOS 26.5 beta. A Suggested Places tab now appears in Apple Maps searches, which may host future ads.
Other changes include:
– Easier pairing of “Magic” Apple accessories with iPhones
– Return of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iOS and Android
– Updates to StoreKit for developers
– EU-specific changes for third-party wearables and accessories
– Wallpaper bug fixes
**How to try iOS 26.5 beta**
To try iOS 26.5 beta (and the iPadOS 26.5 beta), sign up for the Apple beta software program to access pre-release versions of upcoming updates. Always back up your device before installing a beta version. You can review the iOS 26.5 beta release notes for more information.