One of the most notable additions in iOS 26.5 is support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in the Messages app. While it’s still technically labeled as a beta feature and limited to supported carriers, it’s the first step toward iPhone users being able to chat securely with their Android friends.

Apple's iOS 26.5 update introduces 12 new features, including end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging with Android devices and new Maps tools.

In addition to new features, Apple’s latest software updates also include security improvements, with over 50 fixes in iOS 26.5 alone.

Apple today released iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5, the newest updates to the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 operating systems. The software comes nearly two months after Apple released iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4. The new software can be downloaded on eligible iPhones and iPads over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update.

Apple’s 2026 Pride Collection includes a beautiful, customizable new wallpaper for iPhone and iPad as part of iOS 26.5. Here’s how to set it up.

A 'Reduce Brightness' setting aims to make the transparency features less intrusive, but there are a few other ways to tone down Liquid Glass.

In Messages on iPhone, you can now use SMS, RCS, end-to-end encrypted RCS, and iMessage. Sure, sending media to Android is better, but everything else is more confusing and frustrating than ever.