Apple has released the third public beta of iOS 26.5. The update arrives just a few days after the launch of beta 2 and maintains the focus on minor adjustments and testing of features already under development.
Usuários subscribers to the Apple public beta program can now download the new version from the official Beta Software Program website. The file size is around 1.78 GB in some reports. The previous beta had added an explanatory screen about upcoming announcements on Apple Maps.
Busca on Maps gains automatic suggestions
The most visible highlight in beta 3 continues to be the Lugares Sugeridos feature within the Mapas app. By tapping the search bar, the user sees recommendations for nearby establishments without having to type anything. Essas suggestions take into account local trends, recent searches, and personalized factors.
The feature appeared in the first betas of iOS 26.5 and continues to be refined. Ele integrates new sections into the search screen and can set the stage for displaying labeled ads at the top of the results. Apple has already confirmed plans to place advertising on Maps in some countries, with an emphasis on privacy: ads will not be linked to the user’s Apple account.
Testadores noticed updated icons for categories like restaurants and gas stations. The navigation gains a slight visual polish, but without major layout changes.
Testes Cryptocurrency on RCS Advances
Apple is testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages in the Mensagens app. The feature allows for more secure conversations between iPhone and Android devices. Ele appeared in previous betas, was temporarily removed and now returns for refinement.
The functionality still depends on operator support. Quando enabled, encryption occurs by default on eligible RCS conversations. Isso represents a further step in interoperability between messaging platforms.
Recursos specific to Europa in testing phase
Na União Europeia, the beta continues to expand third-party accessory options to comply with local interoperability rules. The AccessoryLiveActivities framework allows sending Live Activities to wearable devices not manufactured by Apple. Usuários can receive real-time updates, such as game scores or delivery status, directly on watches or other compatible accessories.
Outros in-region testing includes simplified Bluetooth pairing and notification forwarding. Essas changes are restricted to European territory for now.
Opções new subscription on App Store
iOS 26.5 also sets the stage for a different subscription model in App Store. Desenvolvedores may offer monthly plans with a 12-month commitment. The user pays in installments every month, but assumes annual loyalty, which should allow discounts compared to the standard monthly plan.
Essa configuration appears in the StoreKit developer tools. Ela is somewhere between a single annual payment and a no-obligation monthly charge. Apple detailed the model in release notes to facilitate integration across apps.
- Lugares Sugeridos appear directly in the Maps search bar
- End-to-end Criptografia for RCS in continuous testing
- Suporte to Live Activities in 3rd party accessories in Europa
- Novo monthly subscription model with annual commitment on App Store
- Ajustes performance and bug fixes in wallpapers and animations
What hasn’t changed in this beta
The update does not bring artificial intelligence features based on Gemini. Apple seems to focus greater efforts on iOS 27. Não There are significant new features in Siri or productivity tools. The focus remains on stability, corrections and testing of features already announced or under development.
Alguns users reported subtle improvements in fluidity and fixes for specific problems, such as failures to install certain wallpapers or frame drops on the lock screen. Esses adjustments help prepare the ground for the final launch, expected in the coming months.
Como install public beta 3
Para to participate, the user needs to register in Apple’s Beta Software Program program. Depois approved, the update appears in Ajustes > Geral > Atualização of Software. It is recommended that you make a complete backup of your iPhone before installation, as this is software under testing.
Public beta 3 is available for iPhones compatible with iOS 26. Apple usually releases corresponding versions for iPadOS, watchOS and other systems in the same cycle.
