The first iOS 26.5 release candidate is now available for iPhone. After several beta versions, this is likely the version of iOS 26.5 that will reach customers in a few days.

iOS 26.5 beta has included a splash screen for ads in Apple Maps, coming this summer; Bluetooth pairing over USB for Apple’s Magic accessories, like on Mac; Suggested Places in Apple Maps, and some changes specific to the EU. See our roundup of iOS 26.5 changes and features here.

Today’s iOS 26.5 release likely comes a week or so ahead of the iPhone software update’s official release.

Looking ahead, we’re only about a month away from the next major update, iOS 27, which should be available as an early developer beta starting June 8. That’s when Apple kicks off its WWDC 2026 week. iOS 27 will likely enter public beta in July and be released to everyone in September.