What’s New in iOS 18.5: Enhancements to the Mail App, Screen Time Security Updates, and More
Apple’s iOS 18.5 update is scheduled for release during the week of May 13th, and while it may not feature an abundance of eye-catching upgrades, the update offers significant improvements that enhance the daily iPhone experience. From adjustments to the Mail app and security enhancements for Screen Time to the addition of satellite connectivity for older devices and a lively new Pride wallpaper, here’s all you need to know about iOS 18.5.
iOS 18.5 Release and Overview
The iOS 18.5 Release Candidate (RC) was issued by Apple just one week after the fourth developer beta. This indicates that the official public release is on the horizon. Although this version is not as feature-packed as previous updates, it still brings critical improvements that reflect Apple’s ongoing priorities in personalization, security, and accessibility.
This update will be compatible with all iPhones that can run iOS 18, including the iPhone 13 and later models.
Satellite Connectivity for iPhone 13
One of the key enhancements in iOS 18.5 is the introduction of carrier-supported satellite capabilities to the iPhone 13 series. Once restricted to the iPhone 14 models and newer, Emergency SOS via Satellite is now available for iPhone 13 users—if their carrier offers support.
What Is Emergency SOS via Satellite?
Launched in 2022, this feature enables users to connect with emergency services using satellite technology when out of reach of cellular and Wi-Fi networks. Rather than making a traditional phone call, the device transmits compressed text data via satellite to emergency responders. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and individuals in remote or disaster-affected regions.
However, users of the iPhone 13 need to confirm whether their carrier—such as T-Mobile in the U.S.—supports satellite services, as it is not activated by default.
Mail App Enhancements in iOS 18.5
Apple continues to enhance its native Mail app, making it more intuitive and customizable.
New In-App Settings
In the past, to manage the visibility of contact photos or disable the “Group by Sender” view, users needed to access the Settings app. With iOS 18.5, these options are now readily available within the Mail app, streamlining the experience.
More Intelligent Email Organization
These updates build on prior enhancements like those in iOS 18.2, which brought machine learning-driven email categorization. Known internally as “BlackPearl,” this feature utilizes on-device intelligence to sort emails into categories such as promotions, transactions, and personal correspondence—reminiscent of Gmail tabs but with an Apple flavor.
This AI-based sorting has recently been incorporated into macOS Sequoia 15.4 and iPadOS 18.4, offering a cohesive experience across Apple’s device ecosystem.
Refinements to the Settings App
The Settings app sees a minor yet significant update in iOS 18.5. The “AppleCare & Warranty” section now has an updated header providing additional service information and a clickable link to Apple’s support website.
This adjustment aligns with Apple’s broader redesign of the Settings app introduced in iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia, aimed at making system preferences more user-friendly by reorganizing options and improving navigation.
2025 Pride Harmony Wallpaper Collection
To honor LGBTQ+ Pride Month, iOS 18.5 unveils the 2025 Pride Harmony Wallpaper Collection. This continues Apple’s trend of releasing Pride-themed Apple Watch bands, watch faces, and wallpapers each May.
What’s Unique About the Pride Harmony Wallpaper?
The wallpapers showcase dynamic rainbow designs that evolve according to the device’s motion and unlocking actions, delivering a lively and personalized user experience. Apple has long supported LGBTQ+ rights. CEO Tim Cook, the first openly gay CEO of a Fortune 500 company, has made inclusivity a fundamental aspect of the company’s ethos. Proceeds from Pride Edition products often contribute to LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations globally.
Screen Time Security Enhancements
Apple’s Screen Time parental control tool receives a vital security upgrade in iOS 18.5. Parents will now be notified when their Screen Time passcode is successfully entered on a child’s device. This adds a layer of protection to prevent children from circumventing restrictions through casual attempts or shoulder-surfing.
Why This Is Important
Screen Time has become an essential resource for parents managing their children’s online behaviors. With this new notification system, Apple fortifies accountability and security, instilling greater confidence in the feature.
Other Noteworthy Changes
Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements
- The iOS 18.5 update resolves an issue affecting the Apple Vision Pro app, which previously showed a black screen intermittently.
- A new “Buy with iPhone” option is now available for making purchases on the Apple TV app through third-party devices, enhancing the ease of Apple’s payment ecosystem.
Security Updates
While Apple has not provided exhaustive details, the company has indicated that iOS 18.5 includes critical security fixes. These details will likely be revealed following the complete public release.
Conclusion
While iOS 18.5 may not transform the iPhone experience, it underscores Apple’s dedication to refining its software with thoughtful, user-focused updates. By improving accessibility to emergency satellite communication, streamlining email settings, and enhancing parental controls, this update boosts safety, personalization, and usability.
For users who appreciate Apple’s ecosystem for its blend of innovation and dependability, iOS 18.5 is a valuable enhancement that subtly enriches the overall iPhone experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What iPhones are compatible with iOS 18.5?
iOS 18.5 is compatible with all iPhones that work with iOS 18, including the iPhone XS and newer models.
Will Emergency SOS via Satellite automatically function on iPhone 13?
No. Although iOS 18.5 provides satellite functionality for iPhone 13 devices, it will only operate if your wireless carrier supports this feature. Currently, certain providers like T-Mobile offer it.
How can I adjust Mail settings in iOS 18.5?
You can now adjust contact photos and the “Group by Sender” function directly from the Mail app, removing the need to access the Settings app.
Is the Pride Harmony wallpaper accessible to all users?
Yes. The new Pride Harmony wallpaper will be available to all users with compatible devices as part of the iOS 18.5 update.
What type of security upgrades does iOS 18.5 feature?
Apple has confirmed general security improvements, including enhanced alerts for Screen Time passcodes and bug fixes. Details on specific vulnerabilities will follow the public rollout.
What additional features are included in iOS 18.5?
Aside from updates to Mail, Settings, and Screen Time, iOS 18.5 features bug fixes for the Apple Vision Pro app and a new “Buy with iPhone” option for the Apple TV app.
When is iOS 18.5 expected to be released?
Apple is anticipated to launch iOS 18.5 during the week of May 13, 2025, with a probable release on the Monday of that week.
