iOS 26.5 is coming very soon with a variety of brand new features for users. Here are the new iOS 26.5 features being added to three popular iPhone apps.
#1: Messages
Apple’s Messages app is getting an important upgrade in iOS 26.5 for RCS messaging.
RCS is the best messaging option for green bubble friends, providing many iMessage-like features that SMS doesn’t support.
And in iOS 26.5, Apple has added end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in beta. Per Apple’s fine print:
End-to-end encryption is in beta and is not available for all devices or carriers. Conversations labeled as encrypted are encrypted end-to-end, so messages can’t be read while they’re sent between devices.
Apple previously tested this RCS upgrade in iOS 26.4 but removed it before launch. However, it warned testers that would happen, and no such caution has been shared for iOS 26.5, so it seems the new feature will ship this time.
#2: Apple Maps
Apple Maps is getting a useful addition to the search screen in iOS 26.5.
‘Suggested Places’ is a new feature that recommends two places every time you tap into the search field.
These suggestions are based on a few different factors:
- Locations trending nearby
- Previous searches you’ve performed
- “And more” per Apple
I’ve really enjoyed the feature so far in the beta, as it feels like a perfect addition to the search screen. It doesn’t get in the way or clutter up other parts of the app, and is a great discovery aid.
Eventually, Apple says one of these ‘Suggested Places’ slots could feature promoted locations (e.g., ads). But I still feel optimistic the feature will be a net positive.
#3: App Store
The App Store is about to add a new option for in-app subscriptions.
Apple gives developers flexibility in which subscription plans they offer, but the most popular tend to be monthly and annual plans. Monthly is easily the most common, but annual plans usually come with a nice discount.
With iOS 26.5, Apple will start providing a new subscription option that’s a sort of blend between these popular plans.
It’s an annual subscription split into 12 monthly payments. Or as Apple puts it, a “monthly with 12-month commitment” plan.
From Apple’s developer beta release notes:
You can specify the billing plan type to use for subscriptions that have a monthly with 12-month commitment billing plan configuration…
Presumably, this plan could entice more users to sign up for a year of service and get a discount, while avoiding the big up-front charge.
Best iPhone accessories
- AirPods Pro 3 (now only $199, down from $249)
- MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone
- 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack
- 100W USB-C fast charging power adapter
- Apple’s new AirTag 2 (1-pack / 4-pack)
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