The next iPhone software update is almost here. iOS 18.5 is just around the corner, and while it’s not a huge update, there are still some nice changes to look forward to. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming, when it’s coming, and what’s next for iPhone users.
iOS 18.5 Release Date
Apple started testing iOS 18.5 with developers on April 2, when it released the first beta. Beta two came out on April 14, and beta three followed on April 21.
If we look at the past few years, here’s when Apple usually rolls out its mid-cycle updates:
- iOS 17.5 – May 13, 2024
- iOS 16.5 – May 18, 2023
- iOS 15.5 – May 16, 2022
- iOS 14.5 – April 26, 2021
- iOS 13.5 – May 20, 2020
Based on this, iOS 18.5 will probably launch during the third week of May — so you won’t have to wait much longer.
What’s New in iOS 18.5?
Don’t expect major changes this time around. iOS 18.5 is mainly focused on bug fixes and performance improvements. It’s the kind of update that keeps your iPhone running smoothly behind the scenes.
Still, there are a few small updates worth mentioning — especially in the Mail app.
Mail App Changes
Last year with iOS 18.2, Apple gave the Mail app a big refresh. They added a new categorization system and made contact photos bigger. Since then, Apple has been fine-tuning it based on user feedback.
In iOS 18.5, you’ll see two more changes:
- You can now turn off contact photos much more easily. Just tap the three dots in the upper-right corner of the Mail app and toggle off “Show Contact Photos.” Before, you had to dig through the Settings app to do this.
- Apple has also made the “All Mail” view more visible. Before, you had to swipe across the categories (like Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions) to find it. Now, “All Mail” is its own fifth tab. It’s much easier to spot.
Other Small Tweaks
Apple has also made warranty information easier to find. With iOS 18.5, the AppleCare info in the Settings app will be more visible. You’ll be able to check your iPhone’s warranty at a glance without having to dig deep into menus.
What’s Coming After iOS 18.5?
Once iOS 18.5 rolls out, Apple will quickly move to the next update. iOS 18.6 beta testing is expected to start in May. Just like 18.5, it should be a smaller update without any major new features.
But the big excitement is right around the corner.
iOS 19 will be announced at WWDC 2025, which kicks off on June 9 with Apple’s keynote event. Developers will get the first beta of iOS 19 right after the keynote, giving everyone a first look at what’s coming later this year.
Wrap Up
iOS 18.5 might be a small update, but it still brings a few welcome improvements, especially for Mail users. Keep an eye out — it should land on your iPhone sometime in mid-to-late May. After that, all eyes will be on WWDC and the big reveal of iOS 19.
