May has arrived, which signifies we’re just a month away from Apple’s major WWDC announcements. However, the company has a lot planned for May; here’s everything we anticipate for this month.
## iOS 26.5 will introduce new iPhone features this month
iOS 26.5 is set to be released this month, alongside companion updates such as iPadOS 26.5, macOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, and others. With iOS 27 on the horizon, iOS 26.5 is understandably a minor release in terms of new features.
Here’s what’s new:
Although they’re not included in the betas yet, we’re also looking forward to a new Pride wallpaper in iOS and iPadOS 26.5, as well as a matching watch face in watchOS 26.5.
## Apple showcases new Accessibility features for iOS 27
Apple has established a custom of showcasing its upcoming accessibility features each May, coinciding with Global Accessibility Awareness Day. We anticipate that the company will announce new accessibility features for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, and more through a press release around mid-May. Last year’s announcements took place on May 13, while the year prior it was on May 15.
## iOS 26.6 betas may occur, but they could hold off until June
For the past two years, Apple has delayed the release of its initial x.6 betas until after WWDC. Nevertheless, in 2023 and previously, it was typical for new betas to launch in May—or potentially earlier. iOS 16.6 beta 1 was released on May 19, iOS 15.6 beta 1 on May 18, and iOS 14.6 in April. Therefore, if Apple maintains its pattern from the last two years, iOS 26.5’s nearing beta cycle will likely be the final betas we observe until June. However, if the company reverts to older practices, iOS 26.6 beta 1 could potentially be released in May.
## New Apple TV and Apple Arcade releases
Apple TV will feature several brand new series launching in May, along with a new movie marking John Travolta’s directorial debut. Apple Arcade will see four new games released on Thursday, May 7.
## Apple hardware launches are not anticipated in May
Apple has already had a significant year of product releases, but new launches are unlikely until at least WWDC. There are over 15 new Apple products rumored to debut before the year concludes. Although new Mac mini, Mac Studio, and base iPads were once expected to launch in the first half of the year, they now seem improbable as well.