iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Released, Enabling Encrypted RCS Messaging Between iPhone and Android Phones

Apple released iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and related updates on May 11, 2026.

The iPhone update adds beta end-to-end encrypted RCS chats for supported Android users via Google Messages.

It also includes a new Pride Luminance wallpaper, Apple Maps trend-based recommendations, subscription billing options, and Reminders changes.

The update is a notable privacy step that reduces reliance on less secure SMS ahead of WWDC 2026.