iOS 26.5 Beta 2 Released by Apple With Maps Update and RCS Encryption Fix

Apple has released iOS 26.5 beta 2 for developers on April 13, 2026, pushing the second test build of its upcoming iPhone software update. The release follows two versions of the first beta, with the second beta also landing alongside new builds for iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and HomePod.

Developers can access the update through Settings, General, then Software Update. Public beta users are expected to receive access shortly after, consistent with Apple’s usual beta release pattern.

Suggested Places, RCS Encryption, and What Actually Changed in Beta 2

The most visible addition carrying over from beta 1 is the Suggested Places feature inside Apple Maps. When tapping the Search bar, users now see location recommendations based on trending nearby spots and recent searches. Apple has confirmed those suggestions will eventually include sponsored placements, and iOS 26.5 beta 2 now surfaces a popup notifying users about the upcoming ads policy the first time Maps is opened after installation.

RCS end-to-end encryption is also still present, with Apple refining the feature after bugs were found in the first beta. The toggle sits under Settings, Messages, then RCS Messaging. Apple first attempted to ship this feature with iOS 26.4 before pulling it, and the current beta marks its second testing cycle.

For European users, Apple continues testing the ability to send Live Activities to third-party accessories, a feature specific to that region. The update also includes groundwork for a new App Store subscription structure that would let developers offer monthly billing under a 12-month commitment plan.

No Siri Upgrades, and the Bigger Picture Heading Into WWDC

One thing notably absent from both beta rounds is any sign of Siri improvements. iOS 26.5 carries no new AI capabilities for Siri, confirming what most observers had already suspected: the major overhaul being referred to as Siri 2.0 is being held for iOS 27, which Apple is expected to announce at WWDC 2026 on June 8.

Apple is not alone in facing scrutiny over delayed AI assistant upgrades, but the lack of even incremental changes in the 26.5 betas makes the timeline clearer. The public release of iOS 26.5 is expected in early to mid-May, ahead of the developer conference.

iOS 26.5 beta 2 is a focused, incremental build, advancing Maps functionality and tightening RCS encryption rather than introducing sweeping changes. With WWDC weeks away, Apple appears to be reserving its most significant software moves for the iOS 27 announcement.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

When will iOS 26.5 be released to the public?

Apple is expected to release iOS 26.5 to all iPhone users sometime in early to mid-May 2026. The current builds are only available to developers and public beta participants enrolled through Apple’s beta program.

What is the Suggested Places feature in Apple Maps?

Suggested Places appears when you tap the Search bar in Apple Maps, showing recommendations based on what is trending nearby and your recent searches. Apple has confirmed the feature will eventually include paid placements from advertisers.

Is RCS end-to-end encryption available in iOS 26.5?

Yes, RCS end-to-end encryption is included in iOS 26.5 beta 2 and enabled by default. It can be managed under Settings, Messages, then RCS Messaging, though whether it ships in the final public release has not been officially confirmed.