Apple Releases RC Versions of iOS 26.5 and Other OS Updates, Final Release Imminent

Key facts

• Apple released release candidates (RC) for iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 on June 4 local time.
• The RC is the final beta version before the official release, though Apple has occasionally issued RC2 versions in the past.
• iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 do not include the anticipated new Siri features, which are now expected to debut with iOS 27 in September.
• iOS 26.5 will introduce RCS end-to-end encryption for messages between iPhone and Android devices.
• The update also includes a new Pride 2026 wallpaper and the start of reservations for Watch bands.
• Apple has also released beta 2 versions of iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, and other OS updates earlier in the cycle.

Release Candidates Signal Imminent Public Launch

Apple released the release candidates (RC) for iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 to developers on June 4. The RC marks the final beta stage before the official version is made available to the public. While Apple has occasionally issued a second RC (RC2) in recent updates, the arrival of the RC strongly indicates that the final release is near.

New Siri Features Delayed to iOS 27

Despite expectations, iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 do not include the rumored new Siri capabilities. Apple appears to have postponed these features to iOS 27, which is expected to launch in September. The decision suggests that the company is prioritizing other improvements in the current update cycle.

RCS End-to-End Encryption for Cross-Platform Messaging

A key feature of iOS 26.5 is the introduction of RCS end-to-end encryption for messages exchanged between iPhone and Android devices. This update addresses long-standing privacy concerns and brings a higher level of security to cross-platform communication. The Messages app will now support encrypted RCS messaging, aligning with Apple's commitment to user privacy.

Pride 2026 Wallpaper and Watch Band Reservations

Alongside the OS updates, Apple is offering a new Pride 2026 wallpaper for iOS and iPadOS. The company has also started accepting reservations for new Watch bands, likely tied to the Pride celebration. These additions are part of Apple's ongoing tradition of releasing special edition content for Pride month.

Wider OS Update Cycle Includes Beta 2 Releases

Prior to the RC, Apple released the second beta versions of iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, and other OS updates. This indicates a structured development process, with multiple beta iterations before the RC stage. The RC now serves as the final checkpoint before the public release.

What to Expect Next

With the RC now in developers' hands, the official public release of iOS 26.5 and its companion OS updates is expected within days or weeks, barring any critical issues. However, if Apple decides to issue an RC2, the timeline could extend slightly. Users can look forward to enhanced messaging security and other improvements, while waiting for the more significant Siri overhaul in iOS 27.

The bottom line

• Apple released release candidates for iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 on June 4.
• The RC is the final beta version, indicating the official release is imminent.
• New Siri features are not included in iOS 26.5 and are delayed to iOS 27.
• iOS 26.5 introduces RCS end-to-end encryption for messages between iPhone and Android.
• A new Pride 2026 wallpaper and Watch band reservations are part of the update.
• Apple may still release an RC2 before the final version, as has happened previously.