2nd RC Build of iOS 26.5 Released for Testers

A second release canndidate build has been released for iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 (but not for MacOS 26.5 which is still the original 26.5 RC build). Participating beta testers can find the latest RC build to download on their enrolled devices.

Typically a second RC build is issued if there was a last minute bug or security patch applied, or perhaps a last minute feature added. Regardless, it’s likely that the final versions of iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, and MacOS Tahoe 26.5, will be released next week to everyone.

iOS 26.5 will include support for encrypted RCS text messages, a new multicolor Pride wallpaper, and support for “Suggested Places” in Apple Maps.

Outside of the beta programs, the recent stable builds are still MacOS Tahoe 26.4.1, iOS 26.4.2, and iPadOS 26.4.2.

How to Download iOS 26.5 RC 2 / iPadOS 26.5 RC 2

Finding the RC build on an iPhone and iPad enrolled in the beta program is like a typical software update:

1. Open”Settings” app
2. Go to “General” and then “Software Update”
3. Download and install iOS 26.5 / iPadOS 26.5

iOS 26.5 RC 2 Release Notes

Release notes accompanying the download are as follows:

iOS 26.5

This update introduces support for end-to-end encrypted RCS (beta) messaging and a downloadable Pride Luminance wallpaper, along with enhancements, bug fixes, and security updates for your iPhone

This update includes the following enhancements:
● End-to-end encrypted RCS messaging (beta) in Messages is available with supported carriers and will roll out over time. For more information visit: https://support.apple.com/109526
● Pride Luminance wallpaper that dynamically refracts a spectrum of colors, is available for download
● Suggested Places in Maps displays recommendations based on what’s trending nearby and your recent searches

For information on the security content of Apple software updates, please visit:
https://support.apple.com/100100

Some features may not be available in all regions or on all iPhone models. To learn more, please visit: https://apple.com/ios/feature-availability/

Software updates, like this one, add new features and improvements that may affect performance and/or battery life. To learn more, please visit: https://support.apple.com/125039

Again, it’s likely the final public releases of OS 26.5 builds will come available next week.

With WWDC 2026 just around the corner in June, it’s likely that Apple is putting most of their development efforts into OS 27 betas.