iOS 26.5 and iOS 27 are set to bring a host of new features to iPhone users, with Apple's focus shifting towards enhancing user experience and security. While iOS 26.5 lays the groundwork for some significant changes, iOS 27 is expected to be a major overhaul, with Apple aiming to improve 'quality and underlying performance'.
One of the most notable features in iOS 26.5 is the addition of end-to-end encryption for RCS in the Messages app. This security feature ensures that messages sent between supported iOS 26.5 and Android devices are encrypted and cannot be intercepted by third parties. However, it's worth noting that this feature was previously tested in the iOS 26.4 beta but didn't make it into the final release. It remains to be seen if it will launch with iOS 26.5 or be removed again before beta testing ends, only to return at some point during the iOS 27 software cycle.
Another significant change in iOS 26.5 is the introduction of ads in the Apple Maps app. Apple says businesses in the U.S. and Canada will be able to place ads in search results and at the top of a new 'Suggested Places' section. This move has raised concerns about privacy, with Apple promising strong privacy protections, such as not associating a user's location and ads they see with their Apple Account.
iOS 27, on the other hand, is expected to bring a more personalized version of Siri, with understanding of a user's personal context, on-screen awareness, and deeper per-app controls. It will also reportedly feature a dedicated Siri app with its own chatbot functionality and conversation history, or users will be able to tap into third-party chatbots such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, and Anthropic's Claude through a so-called 'Extensions' feature in the app.
In terms of design, iOS 27 is not expected to include any major Liquid Glass design changes, but the update may add a system-wide Liquid Glass slider for precisely adjusting the opacity of the interface. Additionally, Apple has reportedly tested an updated iPhone keyboard with enhanced autocorrect, which should debut on iOS 27 if Apple moves forward with it.
Overall, iOS 26.5 and iOS 27 are set to bring a range of new features to iPhone users, with a focus on enhancing user experience and security. However, it remains to be seen if all the rumored features will make it into the final releases, and Apple may still make changes before the software is released to the public.
