Apple has launched iOS 18.4 for all users a few weeks back, and there was previously no public version of the iOS 18.5 developer beta. However, the first public beta of iOS 18.5 is now live. Let’s take a look at what’s new.
Focus of iOS 18.5: Under-the-hood changes and Apple Mail updates
So far, iOS 18.5 doesn’t appear to be a particularly significant update for iPhone users.
While we might witness additional changes in forthcoming beta releases, the current updates are largely minor.
Apple Mail underwent a major redesign in iOS 18.2, and although users could deactivate certain features of that redesign, iOS 18.5 simplifies the process even further.
You can now adjust various Mail settings via the three-dot menu located in the top-right corner of the app, including the option to disable categories, AI-driven priority messages, and sender grouping.
One noteworthy visual feature—the introduction of contact photos in your inbox—was initially missing.
Now, in iOS 18.5, there’s a new setting in that menu: ‘Show Contact Photos.’
Disabling this feature allows you to revert your inbox closer to its previous appearance. Before, this option was only accessible through the Settings app.
Additionally, iOS 18.5 introduces visual enhancements to the AppleCare & Warranty screen within the Settings app, including links for obtaining support directly from Apple’s website.
Overall, the iOS 18.5 public beta mainly consists of behind-the-scenes modifications.
This means it may not be advisable to install it yet, as there could be bugs or performance issues at this early stage of the beta testing.
If you’ve tried the iOS 18.5 beta, how is it performing for you? Share your experiences in the comments.
