iOS 18.5 Update Arrives with Minor Tweaks: How to Download, Supported Devices, and More
Table of Contents
Introduction
Apple has officially released the iOS 18.5 update — a month ahead of WWDC 2025, where iOS 19 is expected to be unveiled. While this might be one of the final major updates to iOS 18, it still brings meaningful improvements for iPhone users.
From subtle changes in the Mail app to new parental control features and extended satellite connectivity support, iOS 18.5 is worth checking out. Let’s dive into what’s new, how to install it, supported devices, and security enhancements.
Ever wondered what Apple’s cooking up while everyone’s distracted by the iOS 18 hype? The quiet beta release of iOS 18.5 just dropped, and it’s packed with subtle tweaks that might actually matter more for your daily iPhone experience.
I’ve spent the last 48 hours digging through every corner of this update, and I’ll show you exactly which features are worth getting excited about.
Most tech blogs will gloss over iOS 18.5 as just another minor update, but they’re missing something crucial: Apple’s laying groundwork for major AI capabilities that’ll change how your iPhone works.
But here’s what’s really interesting—the most useful feature isn’t even mentioned in Apple’s release notes. Let me show you what they’re hiding.
What’s New in iOS 18.5?
While not packed with flashy features, iOS 18.5 introduces several helpful tweaks:
1. Mail App Enhancements
You can now access the ‘All Mail’ inbox, which was previously hidden.
A long-standing annoyance is resolved — you can toggle off Contact Photos directly from within the Mail app, no longer needing to dive into the Settings app.
2. New Pride-Themed Wallpaper
Just in time for Pride Month, Apple has introduced a vibrant new wallpaper, complementing the Pride Edition Apple Watch Bands released recently.
3. Improved Parental Controls
Parents will now get real-time notifications when their child’s Screen Time passcode is used, adding an extra layer of monitoring and control.
4. Satellite Connectivity for iPhone 13 Series
Previously limited to newer models, satellite connectivity is now available for iPhone 13 users — at least in select markets like the US.
5. Apple TV Purchases on iPhone
iPhone users can now purchase Apple TV app content directly from their device — a convenience previously reserved for tvOS devices.
Security Fixes in iOS 18.5
Apple has also included important security patches in iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5. Notable fixes include:
AppleJPEG: Fixed a vulnerability that could cause unexpected app crashes via malicious media files.
FaceTime: Addressed issues where muting the mic wouldn’t actually silence audio.
Call History & Notes: Resolved privacy concerns where deleted entries were still accessible.
CoreMedia, CoreGraphics, and CoreAudio: Improved memory handling and sanitization to prevent crashes and data leaks.
iCloud Document Sharing: Tightened permissions to prevent unauthorized access.
And many more CVE-referenced security issues involving Bluetooth, kernel memory, and image parsing.
iOS 18.5 Supported Devices:
The iOS 18.5 update is available on all iPhones compatible with iOS 18:
iPhone XS, XS Max
iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2nd gen)
iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 series
iPhone 16 series (including the new iPhone 16e)
If your iPhone already runs iOS 18, you’re eligible for the 18.5 update.
How to Download iOS 18.5
Here’s how to get the latest iOS update on your iPhone:
Open the Settings app.
Tap on General > Software Update.
If iOS 18.5 is available, tap Download and Install.
Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and has at least 50% battery before updating.
iOS 18.5: A Subtle Yet Valuable Update
While iOS 18.5 doesn’t bring massive UI changes or revolutionary features, it makes your iPhone experience a little smoother, safer, and more convenient. From practical fixes in the Mail app to expanding critical features like satellite connectivity, it’s a solid prelude to what’s coming in iOS 19.
Also Released Alongside iOS 18.5:
iPadOS 18.5
watchOS 11.5
macOS 15.5
visionOS 2.5
tvOS 18.5
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