iOS 26.5 is coming soon to users with various new features. Here are the new iOS 26.5 features added to three popular iPhone applications.

#1: Messages

Apple's Messages app is receiving a significant update for RCS messaging with iOS 26.5.

RCS is the best messaging option for friends with green bubbles and offers many iMessage-like features that SMS does not support.

With iOS 26.5, Apple has added end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in beta. According to Apple's small print:

End-to-end encryption is in beta and is not available for all devices or carriers. Conversations labeled as encrypted are end-to-end encrypted, so messages are unreadable while being sent between devices.

Apple previously tested this RCS update in iOS 26.4 but removed it before launch. However, they warned test users that this would happen, and no such warning has been shared for iOS 26.5, so it seems the new feature will be available this time.

#2: Apple Maps

Apple Maps is making a useful addition to the search screen with iOS 26.5.

‘Suggested Places’ is a new feature that suggests two places every time you click on the search field.

These suggestions are based on several different factors:

  • Trending places nearby
  • Your previous searches
  • “And more” according to Apple

I really liked this feature in beta, as it seems like a perfect addition to the search screen. It doesn't clutter or obstruct other sections and provides great discovery assistance.

Ultimately, Apple says that one of these ‘Suggested Places’ fields may include promoted locations (for example, ads). However, I remain optimistic that this feature will provide a positive contribution.

#3: App Store

The App Store is preparing to add a new option for in-app subscriptions.

Apple is providing flexibility to developers regarding the subscription plans they offer, but the most popular ones are usually monthly and yearly plans. Monthly plans are the most common, but yearly plans often come with a nice discount.

With iOS 26.5, Apple will start offering a new subscription option that is a mix of these popular plans.

This is an annual subscription divided into 12 monthly payments. Or as Apple puts it, “a monthly plan with a 12-month commitment.”

From Apple's developer beta release notes:

You can specify the type of billing plan to be used for subscriptions with a monthly 12-month commitment billing plan configuration...

This plan is thought to encourage more users to sign up for a year of service and receive a discount while avoiding a large upfront payment.