Just days after releasing the final versions of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, watchOS 11.4, tvOS 18.4, and visionOS 2.4, Apple is beginning the next round of beta testing. The first beta versions of iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5, watchOS 11.5, tvOS 18.5, and visionOS 2.5 are now available for download to registered developers. This marks the start of the next phase of Apple's operating system development.
The start of each new beta phase marks the beginning of another stage in the continuous development of Apple systems. The first beta version generally serves to lay the technical foundation for later features and adjustments. At the same time, it is used to identify and fix potential bugs early on. The specific new features included in the first beta of iOS 18.5 and the other systems are not yet known. As soon as more information is available, we will, as usual, cover them in detail in a separate article.
Beta 1 of iOS 18.5, macOS 15.5 and other systems available
Beta 1, released today, is initially aimed at registered developers. They can install the new versions directly on their test devices via the Apple Developer Program. This requires an active developer account and activation of the corresponding beta profile on the respective device. As usual, a public beta version is expected to follow in the coming days, which will then be made available via the Apple Beta Software Program. This way, interested users without developer access can also take a first look at iOS 18.5 and the other systems – but always at their own risk and preferably on a second device.
No information on new features yet
So far, no information has been released about what changes, innovations, or improvements the first beta will bring. Typically, the details of the changes only become apparent once developers and testers have put it to practical use. It's therefore quite possible that the current beta will initially only contain minor adjustments or technical preparations, for example, for upcoming features or planned changes to iOS 19 at WWDC in June. Whether iOS 18.5 will bring new features related to Apple Intelligence, system apps, performance, or the user interface remains open for now. As always, we will document all changes that become known in a separate post.
Beta phase begins: What does iOS 18.5 bring?
With the launch of the first beta of iOS 18.5 and the subsequent system updates, Apple's next testing phase begins. The focus—at least initially—is likely to be on stability, bug fixes, and preparations for upcoming features. Exactly which new features will be included is currently unclear. As soon as more information is available, we'll provide you with detailed and up-to-date information, as usual. The best accessories in one place: Our Amazon Storefront offers you top products, including for your HomeKit! (Photo by Brandon Romanchuk / Bigstockphoto)
