Apple releases iOS 26.5 beta without any sign of AI Siri
Earlier this week, Apple released the iOS 26.5 beta for developers, and now we know what changes are included in the release.
Most of the changes are pretty minor, but here's everything Apple's early adopters have spotted so far.
iOS 26.5 beta: A notable absence
As Apple readies the long-awaited AI version of Siri (which will be powered by Google Gemini), developers and journalists are keeping a very close eye on every new iOS update.
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However, there's no sign of the new Gemini-powered Siri in this particular beta.
In all likelihood, Apple will debut the new and hopefully improved Siri with iOS 27.
iOS 26.5 beta: What's new
So, what is new with this release?
The most notable changes is visible within Apple Maps. As we reported previously, rumor has it that advertisements will soon be coming to Apple Maps, and Apple appears to be laying the groundwork for these ads in the iOS 26.5 beta.
Within Apple Maps searches, you'll now see a Suggested Places tab (as spotted by MacRumors). Presumably, this is where the future Apple Maps ads will live.
Other changes include:
You can more eaily pair "Magic" Apple accessories with your iPhone (as reported by our colleagues at Lifehacker)
MacRumors reports that Apple brought back end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iOS and Android devices
Updates to StoreKit for developers
EU-specific changes for third-party wearables and accessories (read more at 9to5mac)
Wallpaper bug fixes
How to try iOS 26.5 beta
To try iOS 26.5 beta (and the iPadOS 26.5 beta), you'll need to sign up for the Apple beta software program. This will allow you to try out pre-release versions of upcoming iOS updates. As a best practice, always back up your device before installing a beta version of a new OS update.
You can also review the iOS 26.5 beta release notes.
Timothy Beck Werth is the Tech Editor at Mashable, where he leads coverage and assignments for the Tech and Shopping verticals. Tim has over 15 years of experience as a journalist and editor, and he has particular experience covering and testing consumer technology, smart home gadgets, and men’s grooming and style products. Previously, he was the Managing Editor and then Site Director of SPY.com, a men's product review and lifestyle website. As a writer for GQ, he covered everything from bull-riding competitions to the best Legos for adults, and he’s also contributed to publications such as The Daily Beast, Gear Patrol, and The Awl.
Tim studied print journalism at the University of Southern California. He currently splits his time between Brooklyn, NY and Charleston, SC. He's currently working on his second novel, a science-fiction book.
