iOS 26.5 and macOS 26.5 are out: here's why you should install them
Apple just released a round of updates across all its platforms:
iOS 26.5
iPadOS 26.5
macOS Tahoe 26.5
watchOS 26.5
tvOS 26.5
HomePod 26.5
visionOS 26.5
iOS/iPadOS 18.7.9, 17.7.11, 16.7.16, 15.8.8 (security updates for iPhones and iPads that can't upgrade to iOS/iPadOS 26)
macOS Sequoia 15.7.7 (security update for Macs still running Sequoia)
macOS Sonoma 14.8.7 (security update for Macs still running Sonoma)
The feature list is short, but all of these updates are worth installing. These quieter releases often contain the most important work: bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements that don't make the highlights reel.
What's new?
A few things worth knowing about:
Magic pairing for Apple accessories. If you connect a Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, or Magic Trackpad to your iPhone or iPad via USB-C, it now stays paired via Bluetooth once you unplug it. No manual setup in Settings. Mac has had this for years. It's a welcome catch-up.
Encrypted messages with Android users. iOS 26.5 adds end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, on by default. RCS is the modern messaging standard used for iPhone-to-Android texts. This means those conversations can no longer be read in transit by a third party. You don't have to do anything to turn it on.
Pride wallpapers. Apple has added new Pride-themed wallpapers for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.
Suggested places in Apple Maps. Tap the search box in Maps and you'll now see recommendations based on nearby trending spots and your recent searches. The update also lays the groundwork for future ads in Apple Maps.
How to install them
On iPhone or iPad: Settings > General > Software Update.
On Mac: Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update.
If you've fallen behind on updates and aren't sure where to start, I'm happy to help. I offer one-on-one tech tutoring sessions in San Francisco and Washington DC, and via Zoom for anyone anywhere. Book a session and we'll get you sorted out.
