Hey Siri, open Software Update: iOS 26.5 is out

iOS 26.5 is out with RCS messaging, a new Pride wallpaper, Suggested Places, and reminders snoozing options – plus automatic pairing.

On Monday, May 12, Apple released the last OS update before announcing the next version at WWDC26 – now we’re on iOS 26.5. We’ll likely see another OS update this summer, but in effect this is the last version of iOS 26 and its most stable version.

Apple has three key features in this version – end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging (in beta), a new Pride Luminance wallpaper, and Suggested Places in Maps, plus new snoozing options for reminders. My favorite update, however, is automatic pairing when using USB-C to change devices – I switch keyboards at my home desk all the time.

Make sure to use my folder of Software Update shortcuts to jump to the page on your device, as well as check beta release notes.

Featured Shortcuts

shortcut-open-software-update-icon.png
Open Software Update
Opens the Software Update section of Settings to see if new betas and updates are available.
shortcut-check-beta-release-notes-icon.png
Check beta release notes
Presents a menu of platform types, then opens the corresponding release notes page on Apple’s website.
shortcut-learn-about-apple-betas-icon.png
Learn about Apple betas
Opens the Apple Beta Software Program page where you can sign up for Apple’s public betas for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS, plus learn about upcoming releases.
shortcut-find-shortcuts-release-notes-icon.png
Find Shortcuts release notes
Opens Apple.com search results for “Shortcuts release notes”

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