
iOS 18.5 Nears Release: Apple Preps Minor Update with Pride Theme and Bug Fixes
Get ready for the next iteration of Apple's mobile operating system! iOS 18.5 is on the horizon, promising a collection of subtle enhancements and bug fixes, setting the stage for the highly anticipated iOS 19. While major overhauls might be absent, the update is expected to include a new Pride-themed wallpaper and some tweaks to the Mail and Settings apps.
Apple subtly announced the upcoming release in a press release for its new Pride Band, stating that iOS 18.5 is "upcoming," following a beta testing period that lasted over a month. Beta testers and tech enthusiasts have been closely monitoring the updates, anticipating the final release date.
What to Expect in iOS 18.5
While specifics remain under wraps, here's a breakdown of the expected changes:
- Mail App Convenience: Easily toggle contact photos directly within the Mail app, streamlining a feature previously hidden in Settings.
- Settings App Enhancement: More prominent display of AppleCare+ coverage information within the Settings app.
- Pride Collection Celebration: A new Pride Edition Sport Band for Apple Watch is already available, accompanied by a matching iPhone and iPad wallpaper that will be available upon the release of iOS 18.5. This wallpaper will feature colorful stripes that dynamically change position as users interact with their devices.

Release Date Speculation
Industry analysts are buzzing about the potential launch date. Historically, Apple часто releases .5 versions of iOS in mid-May. Considering the past release cadence, experts had predicted a release as early as May 12th but that has already passed. The release candidate is typically released within the week the general release date happens.
Addressing CarPlay Issues
One notable issue that iOS 18.5 is expected to address is the lingering problem with Apple CarPlay. Some users have reported that upgrading to iOS 18.4.1, which was initially intended to fix the bug, hasn't resolved the issue. Hopefully, this update will be the final fix!
Looking Ahead
Beyond the immediate features, the release of iOS 18.5 signifies Apple's dedication to stability and continuous improvement, providing a solid foundation as it shifts focus towards iOS 19. All eyes are on Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference(WWDC) in June, where a comprehensive unveiling of iOS 19 is anticipated. This next-generation OS is expected to bring major changes and significant improvements to the iPhone and iPad user experience.
What are your thoughts on the expected features in iOS 18.5? Are you experiencing any CarPlay issues? Share your thoughts and expectations in the comments below!
Related issues news
When is the next iPhone release?
It seems these changes aren't planned for this year, but will instead be put into place next year – with the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Air launching in September 2026, and the standard iPhone 18 and quite possibly the iPhone 18e then arriving in March 2027.
Should I update to iOS 18.4 1?
iOS 18.4.1 addresses two critical security vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-31200 and CVE-2025-31201. These flaws could allow malicious actors to remotely compromise iPhones. While the update is crucial for security, some users report bricked devices post-installation. It's essential to back up data before updating.