- By Prateek Levi
- Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Cupertino-based tech giant has released the second developer beta of iOS 26.5 for iPhones that support it, and this one is not about big changes but refinements. As per a report from 9to5Mac, it comes with changes that were already there in its public beta 1, like "suggested places" in Apple's map app. RCS end-to-end encryption testing, Live Activities support for third-party accessories and new options when it comes to subscription payments. One must note that it is only available to developers right now, and a public beta is expected to come soon as well. Let's take a closer look at what this new iOS 26.6 developer beta update brings.
iOS 26.5 Developer Beta Details
Apple has rolled out the developer beta 2 of iOS 26.5, and while it’s not a massive update on the surface, there are quite a few interesting changes quietly taking shape across apps and system features.
Let’s start with Apple Maps, which is getting a more proactive upgrade. A new “Suggested Places” section is now showing up directly within the search tab. Instead of typing something specific, you’ll start seeing trending spots nearby along with recommendations based on your recent searches. It’s clearly Apple trying to make Maps feel more like a discovery tool rather than just navigation.
At the same time, there are stronger signs that ads are coming to Apple Maps. Backend changes spotted in this beta suggest Apple is preparing to show local ads depending on your location, what you search for, or even what you’re currently viewing on the map. This lines up with Apple’s earlier plans to introduce ads into Maps sometime this year.
Messaging is also seeing a notable behind-the-scenes shift. Apple is once again testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages. This was briefly seen in the iOS 26.4 beta but didn’t make it to release. Now it’s back in testing with iOS 26.5 beta 2, though there’s still no clarity on whether it will be ready for the public rollout.
The App Store may also be getting more flexible subscription options. Developers could soon offer plans where users commit for 12 months but pay monthly. There’s also talk of annual subscriptions being split into discounted monthly instalments, which could make long-term plans easier to commit to.
Some features are being tested specifically in the European Union as well. Apple is working on better support for third-party accessories, including Live Activities on external devices, along with improvements to notifications and proximity pairing. There’s no timeline yet on when these will roll out or which devices will support them.
Beyond that, there are a few smaller but useful tweaks. Accessories like the Magic Keyboard, Mouse and Trackpad will stay connected over Bluetooth even when plugged in. There’s also a new Inuktitut keyboard, and Apple Books might introduce a “Year in Review 2026” feature with reading badges. Another subtle change gives users more control over how long message attachments are shared when transferring data from an iPhone to an Android device.
As for compatibility, iOS 26.5 developer beta 2 is available across a wide range of devices, from the iPhone 17 series and iPhone 16 lineup all the way back to the iPhone 11 series and iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer).
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If you want to try it out, you’ll need to be part of Apple’s developer beta programme. Once you’re signed in with the same Apple account on your iPhone, just head to Settings, go into General, then Software Update, select Beta Updates, and choose the iOS 26 developer beta. From there, you’ll be able to install the latest beta when it shows up.