iOS 26.5 Public Beta Released with End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging Enabled by Default

Apple released iOS 26.5 beta 1 to developers on March 30, 2026, followed by the public beta on April 5, featuring end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging enabled by default and expected to ship in the final release, unlike the iOS 26.4 beta where Apple explicitly stated it wouldn't ship. The update also includes new Suggested Places feature in Apple Maps with expanded ad placements, though it notably lacks the anticipated AI-driven Siri overhaul that many expected.