Apple has released the iOS 18.5 RC (Release Candidate) to developers and public beta testers on May 6, 2025, marking the final testing phase before its public rollout.
This update introduces a new Pride wallpaper, satellite connectivity for older iPhones, and minor refinements, setting the stage for iOS 19's debut at WWDC.
Release Information
The iOS 18.5 RC, build number 22F75, supports all iOS 18-compatible devices and requires 7.65 GB on devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
It includes a modem firmware update (version 1.60.02 for iPhone 16 series). Alongside iOS, Apple released RC versions for iPadOS 18.5, watchOS 11.5, macOS Sequoia 15.5, tvOS 18.5, HomePod 18.5, and visionOS 2.5.
The public release is slated for May 12, 2025, with a potential RC2 if issues arise.
Key Updates
Pride Harmony Wallpaper
(Credit: Apple)
A vibrant Pride Harmony wallpaper celebrates Pride 2025 with dynamic, animated stripes that shift when locking or unlocking the device.
Available in the Lock Screen customization menu, it pairs with a new Apple Watch band, reinforcing Apple's annual Pride-themed updates.
Satellite Support for iPhone 13
All iPhone 13 models now support carrier-provided satellite features via Starlink, enabled by T-Mobile, Verizon, and carriers in Australia and New Zealand.
This allows texting, including to 911, in areas without cellular coverage, extending emergency connectivity to older devices.
Screen Time Notification
Parents using Screen Time can now receive notifications when a child enters the passcode to bypass app limits, enhancing family oversight and security within the Settings app.
Apple TV App
The "Buy with iPhone" feature streamlines purchases in the Apple TV app on third-party devices, allowing users to verify transactions with Face ID, improving cross-device convenience.
Mail App
The Mail app now allows users to toggle contact photos and priority settings directly from the interface, simplifying customization without navigating to Settings.
AppleCare Interface Redesign
A revamped AppleCare and warranty page in Settings > General > About provides a clearer view of coverage details, improving user access to support information.
Connectivity
In India, Airtel users gain 5G standalone support, while Jio users can enable RCS messaging, expanding communication options for specific regions and carriers.
Performance and Bug Fixes
Performance remains smooth, with Geekbench 6 scores of 3,507 (single-core) and 8,662 (multi-core) on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, slightly better than previous betas.
Battery life improves modestly, with 4-5 hours of screen time consuming 75% battery, though initial installation may cause temporary device warming.
Fixes include resolving a black screen in the Apple Vision Pro app and enterprise app launch issues. Broadcast extensions now support higher memory limits for better screen recording and streaming.
A lingering Siri-Apple Music bug persists, where song playback requests may fail. Security updates are included, with details forthcoming on Apple's security website.
Editor's Comments
The iOS 18.5 RC offers a refined update, with the iPhone 13's satellite support and Pride Harmony wallpaper as highlights.
Unlike iOS 18.3's Home app and Siri upgrades, this release focuses on accessibility and connectivity, particularly for older devices, potentially pushing competitors to enhance emergency features.
The public release on May 12, 2025, should be stable, followed by iOS 18.6 betas that may expand Apple Intelligence globally.
As WWDC nears, iOS 18.5 RC lays a solid groundwork for iOS 19's AI-driven innovations, signaling Apple's steady evolution of the iPhone ecosystem.
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