Apple has released the Release Candidate (RC) of iOS 18.5. iPadOS 18.5, macOS 15.5, watchOS 11.5, tvOS 18.5, and visionOS 2.5 have also been released in the final test version to registered developers and participants in the public beta program. This marks the final step before the regular update is available to all users – the official rollout is expected to begin next week.
Those testing the RC version will typically use the exact build that will be released as the final version—assuming no serious bugs are discovered. The update is available as usual via Settings or the Apple Developer Program.
A final touch before the release
Over the past few weeks, Apple has been gradually refining iOS 18.5 and subsequent system updates with beta versions. The focus was less on new features and more on stability, performance, and detailed maintenance. Even the first beta included minor visible changes – optimizations have been ongoing in the background since then. As things stand, the release candidate version contains no new features compared to the previous beta. This is normal practice: During this phase, only fine-tuning is being done to ensure the smoothest possible launch of the public update.
What's new in iOS 18.5?
Despite the rather quiet beta phase, iOS 18.5 brings some useful changes:
- Mail app now more customizable: Users can disable contact photos and grouping by sender directly in the Mail app via the three-dot menu. This was previously only possible via the settings.
- AppleCare section redesigned: An AppleCare banner has been added to Settings under "General > AppleCare & Warranty," providing faster access to information about the protection status. Access to AppleCare is now also easier via the device list in the Apple ID section.
Further visible improvements were absent in the later betas. Instead, Apple focused on internal optimizations to maximize system stability before the upcoming release.
iOS 18.5 & Co.: Updates coming next week
Experience shows that when Apple releases an RC version, the final update usually follows within a few days. A release next week is considered very likely – possibly as early as Monday or Tuesday. iOS 18.5 and subsequent updates will be available worldwide via System Preferences by then at the latest. As always, anyone already using the RC version doesn't need to download the final update again – as long as the release is the same build. Everyone else can look forward to a stable version with small but noticeable improvements. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Tada Images)
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