iOS 26.5 has been released to all users, but it doesn’t include any visible upgrades to Apple Intelligence, despite earlier expectations of new AI features.
Instead, the update seems to focus on behind-the-scenes changes and laying the groundwork for future services. Reports suggest it prepares the system for upcoming features such as ads in Apple Maps, Apple Intelligence expansion in China, and other backend improvements, rather than introducing new user-facing tools.
The early expected rollout of upgraded Apple Intelligence powered by Apple’s new Foundation Models has now passed, and it appears Apple will likely wait until WWDC to reveal any major AI enhancements.
iOS 26.5 (build 23F77) does include some changes, but none are directly noticeable to users. However, it does set up several upcoming features and system-level upgrades.
What’s new in iOS 26.5
Apple is preparing support for ads in Apple Maps, with backend systems now in place to activate the feature when ready.
A new annual subscription option for the App Store is being introduced, allowing users to commit to 12 months while paying monthly at a discounted rate.
Work is underway for end-to-end encryption in RCS messaging, with supporting code already found in beta builds.
In the EU, iOS 26.5 enables compatibility changes such as allowing users to forward notifications to third-party smartwatches.
Apple Intelligence updates still pending
There are also signs that Apple is continuing development of Apple Intelligence for China, with early accidental activation in beta builds suggesting a possible upcoming rollout.
However, the most notable absence in this release is any upgrade to Apple Intelligence itself. Rumours had pointed to a more advanced, context-aware Siri powered by Apple’s Foundation Models, but that now appears unlikely before WWDC.
While iOS 26.5 doesn’t bring major visible changes, users are still advised to update for important bug fixes and security improvements via Settings ? General ? Software Update.
macOS 26.5 arrives without any noticeable changes apart from the addition of ads and subscription features in Maps
Apple has released macOS 26.5, a quiet update that mainly focuses on stability improvements, subscription-related changes, and behind-the-scenes system refinements rather than introducing new user-facing features.
Unlike macOS Tahoe 26.4, which brought more visible updates to apps and system functions, version 26.5 is centered on maintaining compatibility and strengthening platform performance. After installing it, users are unlikely to notice any major differences in day-to-day use, as Apple has not changed the core macOS experience.
The update also carries build number 25F71 and supports new App Store billing options while fine-tuning system behavior in the background.
A key change in this release is the expansion of Apple Maps advertising to macOS. As part of a wider rollout across Apple platforms, ads now appear at the top of select search results, blending in with standard listings and subtly affecting how locations are surfaced—without impacting navigation itself.
In addition, the “Suggested Places” feature in Maps now highlights locations based on trends, recent searches, and local activity. This means results are no longer determined purely by relevance and distance, as promoted listings can influence visibility.
Apple describes these ads as clearly labeled and driven by contextual signals such as search terms and location, rather than personal user profiles.
iOS 26.5 has now been released to all users, but there are no visible upgrades to Apple Intelligence in this update
