The next round of the ongoing beta phase has begun: Apple has released the second beta version of iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5, watchOS 11.5, tvOS 18.5, and visionOS 2.5 to registered developers. The update is now available for download through the Apple Developer Program. A public beta update is expected to follow shortly.
As usual, fine-tuning is carried out with each new beta version. With the first beta, Apple already introduced small but useful changes – primarily to the Mail app and the AppleCare information in Settings. Whether Beta 2 will add additional features or simply tweak the under-the-hood functionality is currently unknown. As soon as specific new features emerge, we will, as usual, summarize them in a separate article.
Beta 2 of iOS 18.5 and Co. available
The second developer version can now be installed on all compatible devices, provided a corresponding beta profile is set up. The other operating systems – iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS – have also received a corresponding update. The next public beta is expected to be released within the next few days, as is usually the case.
Review: This is what Beta 1 of iOS 18.5 brought
Even though iOS 18.5 doesn't introduce any major new features, the first beta still included some notable changes:
- Mail app with direct control: Contact photos and grouping by sender can now be deactivated directly via the three-dot menu in the app – a request from many users who had difficulty with the new layout since iOS 18.2.
- AppleCare section redesigned: A new banner now appears in Settings under "General > AppleCare & Warranty" with direct access to information about AppleCare coverage. Relevant information can also be accessed and managed more quickly via the Apple ID device list.
More features could follow in the coming weeks with subsequent betas. Currently, Beta 2 doesn't contain any visible new features, as far as we know—but that could change with the usual discoveries from the developer community.
Release of iOS 18.5 expected in May
Based on the current schedule, the final version of iOS 18.5 is expected to be released in May 2025 – likely around the second week of May. This would be in line with Apple's previous .5 releases. Until then, there's still enough time for minor adjustments or further optimizations before the next major development step, iOS 19, arrives in June.
iOS 18.5 Beta 2: Focus on optimizations
With Beta 2 of iOS 18.5 and the accompanying system updates, Apple continues its ongoing development. While no visible new features are known, improvements and fine-tuning are likely to be the focus. As soon as new details become available—be it through developer reports or hints in the code—we'll keep you updated as usual. As always, anyone who wants to test the beta should use a second device. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including HomeKit. (Photo by Unsplash / Sebastian Bednarek)
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