Apple has officially released the first beta version of its upcoming iOS 18.5 update for developers, marking a significant milestone as the company gears up for the anticipated introduction of iOS 19 in just a few months. As the development of iOS 18 begins to wind down, the new iOS 18.5 update is expected to bring only a handful of minor features and enhancements. Below, we've detailed the notable changes introduced in this beta, although it’s worth noting that Apple may incorporate additional features in future beta releases.
Here are some of the key features that users can expect in the iOS 18.5 beta:
One of the most notable updates in the Mail app is the new functionality that allows users to easily toggle Contact Photos on and off. This can be accessed by tapping on the three dots icon located in the upper right corner of the Mail interface. Additionally, users now have the option to disable the Group By Sender feature directly from this menu. These toggles were previously hidden within the Mail section of the Settings app in iOS 18.4, making it much more convenient for those who prefer the Mail app's layout to resemble its pre-iOS 18 design. Users can still find these settings in the Settings app if preferred.
Another enhancement can be found in the Settings app. By navigating to General and selecting AppleCare and Warranty, users will now see a prominent banner featuring the AppleCare logo. This banner provides an option to learn more about AppleCare coverage, which was not available in previous versions. Furthermore, if users access their Apple Account and click on a device from their device list, they will discover a new AppleCare option that provides detailed information about their coverage. For those with a renewing AppleCare plan, there is also a convenient Manage Plan option available.
Have you noticed any additional features in the iOS 18.5 beta that we might have missed? We encourage you to share your insights in the comments section below. For the past three years, Apple has consistently released its x.5 updates in May, specifically during the second week. It is expected that Apple will follow this timeline again, making iOS 18.5 available to the public in May.
For more information, check out our related articles on iOS 18 and iPadOS 18.
