iOS 18.5 is now available for all iPhones starting with the iPhone Xs, up to the latest iPhone 16e.
The update introduces some productivity features in the Mail app.
This could be the last major update in iOS 18, as WWDC 2025 is scheduled for June 2025.
Apple has rolled out the iOS 18.5 update for all eligible iPhones. It brings nifty new features such as a new All Mail option in the Mail app, better parental supervision, and satellite connectivity on the iPhone 13 (only in select countries). The update also introduces a new Pride Harmony wallpaper that changes visuals dynamically based on device movement. Here’s everything new with the iOS 18.5 update.
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iOS 18.5 Update: What’s New?
The iOS 18.5 update brings a much-needed change to the default Mail app by introducing a new All Mail section. This option is now visible in the categories section alongside the Transactions, Updates, and Promotions tabs. The new button makes it easier to access all emails with a single tap.
The update also introduces a Show Contacts Photos button, which lets you view or disable the profile image of the sender. Previously, this function was only available in the Settings app and was very hard to reach.
Apple has also improved parental supervision with iOS 18.5. The iPhone now sends a notification to the parent when the Screen Time passcode is used. This will help parents to monitor the phone usage of their child, and prevent them from making unauthorised changes in device settings.
New Pride Harmony Wallpaper
Another addition in iOS 18.5 is the new Pride Harmony wallpaper. It features a striped design with multiple colours that change position when you lift the device. This adds a dynamic effect, similar to live wallpapers.
The update also adds support for carrier-based satellite connectivity on the iPhone 13. This can be used to send an SOS in emergency situations. Apple has partnered with multiple telecom and carrier operators so that iPhone 13 users can send an SOS signal even without cellular or WiFi connectivity. However, this feature works only in the United States, Europe, and select other countries, but is not available in India.
It also brings some bug fixes related to Call History, CoreBluetooth, CoreAudio, FaceTime, iCloud Document Sharing, and other security features.
Apple’s Big iOS Move
The iOS 18.5 update could be the last major update in the iOS 18 timeline, as Apple is expected to focus on iOS 19. The WWDC 2025 is scheduled for June 9, 2025, which is less than a week away, and we are most likely to witness a first glimpse at Apple’s next iOS version, which is said to be the biggest change in iOS since its inception.
