Apple rolls out iOS 26.5 update with new features, bug fixes and more to iPhones

Apple has begun rolling out the new iOS 25.6 update to all eligible iPhones worldwide.

The update comes with 2026 Pride Luminance themes and wallpapers for iPhones. The special themes dynamically refract spectrum of colours creating visually pleasing user interface on the iPhone.

Also, iOS 26.5 brings end-to-end encrypted RCS (Rich Communication Service) messaging cross compatibility between iPhone with Android mobiles. This particular feature will be initially available in select markets, including the US. It is expected to be expanded to more regions in the coming weeks.

For the uninitiated, RCS brings several improvements over the regular SMS on the Messages app. With RCS enabled, iPhone and Android phone users will be able to send high-resolution images, videos, files, emojis and other multimedia content in original quality and format, on par with WhatsApp and Telegram.

Also, people will be able to read message delivered receipts instantly and also know if the other individual is typing a response to the message.

Most importantly, the RCS ensures the messages exchanged between two individuals are protected via end-to-end encryption.

The iOS 26.5 update also brings several bug fixes, including random app crashes. Whenever an iPhone received a malicious text message or a malware-laced audio message, or images, it used to hang. And, even allowed threat actors to perform denial-of-service (DoS) attacks on targeted devices. The security issues in CoreAnimation, CoreServices, CoreSymbolication, FileProvider, ImageIO, IOHIDFamily, IOKit, IOSurfaceAccelerator, Kernel, Webkit and other core components of the iOS have been fixed.

Apple iOS 26.5 update.

List of iPhones eligible for iOS 26.5 update:

iPhone 17e, iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max. iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, and iPhone SE (2nd gen).

Similarly, Apple has released iPadOS 26.5 update with the same features and bug fixes for the iPads.

Apple iOS 26.5 update.

List of Apple iPads eligible for iPadOS 26.5 update:

iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd generation and newer versions), iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st generation and newer versions), iPad Air (M4), iPad Air (M3), iPad Air (M2), iPad Air (3rd generation and newer versions), iPad (A16), iPad (8th generation and newer versions), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad mini (5th generation and newer versions).

Here's how to install iOS 26.5/iPadOS 26.5 on iPhones and iPads:

As noted earlier, the update is very big, and users are advised to rely on Wi-Fi to download it. And, ensure the device has a little over 50 per cent battery life before starting the installation process.

Via OTA (Over-The-Air)

Prerequisite: Users who want to install the update directly onto the device through OTA, make sure there is enough storage space and the device has more than 50% battery life, before initiating the download of the new iOS/iPadOS update.

Step 1: Settings >> General >> Software update

Via manual installation through Apple iTunes

Prerequisite: Back up your iPhone/iPad to iCloud or iTunes before initiating the download procedure. Also, your PC must have the latest version of the iTunes app. If not, go to About, then check for Updates, or visit iTunes.com.

Step 1: Launch iTunes on your Mac or PC.

Step 2: Insert your iPhone/iPad if it isn't already.

Step 3: Tap on the iPhone/ iPad in the top left navigation.

Step 4: Tap on the Check for Update button in the first section that contains information about your device, and alternatively, you can click Restore instead if you'd like to do a clean wipe with updated software.

Step 5: An update should be recognised, click on Download and Update in the pop-up menu and agree to the terms and conditions.

Step 6: Unlock your device with your passcode if prompted to continue with the upgrade.

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