iOS 18.5 Release Candidate Rolled Out: What’s New Before the Official Launch
Apple has just rolled out the iOS 18.5 release candidate (RC) to both developers and public beta testers, marking the final stage before its official public release next week. This version gives us a complete look at all the new features, improvements, and bug fixes coming to iPhones very soon.
What Is a Release Candidate?
A release candidate is typically the final version of a software update, pending any last-minute bug discoveries. If no major issues are found, this version will become the official public release—expected to arrive next week alongside iPadOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5.
New Features in iOS 18.5
With the RC now available, Apple has provided full release notes, confirming several features that weren’t immediately visible during earlier beta testing.
1. Enhanced Screen Time Alerts for Parents
Parents will now receive a notification when a child bypasses the Screen Time passcode. This improvement adds another layer of control and awareness for families using Apple’s parental control features.
2. Buy With iPhone on Apple TV App
The update brings support for “Buy with iPhone” when purchasing content within the Apple TV app on third-party devices. This feature adds a layer of convenience for users who enjoy watching Apple content on TVs and streaming devices outside the Apple ecosystem.
3. Satellite Service Support for iPhone 13
iOS 18.5 adds carrier-based satellite service support for iPhone 13 models, extending this emergency feature to more users and enhancing safety in remote areas.
Bug Fixes and Enhancements
In addition to new features, iOS 18.5 also addresses some notable bugs:
- Fixes an issue where the Apple Vision Pro app may display a black screen
- Includes general performance enhancements and stability improvements
Note: Some features may not be available in all regions or on all devices.
For a detailed overview of the security content in iOS 18.5, Apple encourages users to visit their official support page.
When Will iOS 18.5 Be Released?
If no significant bugs are found in the release candidate, Apple will likely officially release iOS 18.5 next week. The update will launch alongside other major Apple software updates, including iPadOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5.
