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Apple Releases Public Beta for iOS 26.5 with Maps Updates
Apple has made the first public beta of iOS 26.5 available, following a developer beta release a few days earlier. The update includes a new Suggested Places feature in Apple Maps that highlights trending locations based on user searches or proximity. Additionally, it introduces ads in Maps, with privacy measures in place, and tests end-to-end encryption for RCS messages.
Apr 4, 1:01 PM·2m read1 source
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Apple announced the availability of the public beta for iOS 26.5, which users can access shortly after the developer beta was released. This beta version represents an early testing phase for the next iteration of Apple's mobile operating system. According to Engadget, the public beta allows iPhone users to experience upcoming features before the stable release.
The iOS 26.5 beta introduces a new feature called Suggested Places in the Apple Maps application. This feature displays trending locations, such as restaurants and other establishments, based on a user's current location or search history. Users can view these suggestions by tapping on the search bar in the Maps app, providing potentially useful recommendations for exploration.
Ads are now appearing in the Apple Maps app as part of the iOS 26.5 beta. These ads are based on factors like the user's location, search terms, and current queries within Maps. Engadget reported that ads will be positioned at the top of search results and integrated into the Suggested Places list.
In March, Apple confirmed plans to expand advertising beyond the App Store and Apple News apps, which includes the introduction of ads in Maps. This move could increase revenue for Apple by reaching more users through its ecosystem. The expansion affects iPhone users who interact with Maps, potentially influencing how they discover businesses and services.
Apple has stated that ads in the iOS 26.5 beta will be clearly marked to distinguish them from organic results. The company assures that user privacy is protected, as current location data and ad interactions will not be linked to an Apple Account. Personal data remains on the device and is not collected, according to Engadget's reporting on Apple's statements.
The beta also includes testing for end-to-end encryption in RCS messages, a feature aimed at enhancing secure communications. Engadget noted that Apple has not confirmed whether this encryption will be included in the final stable release of iOS 26.5. This development could impact users who rely on messaging for private conversations, depending on future implementation.
