Apple officially released iOS 18.5 update, that brings a mix of useful new features, design tweaks, and important bug fixes. While it’s not a major upgrade, this version introduces several changes that improve daily iPhone usage. If you’re wondering whether to update or not, here’s everything explained in simple terms.
Table of contents
What’s New in iOS 18.5?
Mail App Improvements
The Mail app now looks slightly different. If you use mail categories, you will see a preview for “All Mail” in the top-right corner. Before this update, you couldn’t preview this section. Now it’s more visible and easier to access.
Also, a new option for “Show Contact Photos” has been added to the three-dot menu in Mail. Earlier, you had to dig into the Settings app to find this option. Now it’s just a tap away.
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AppleCare and Warranty Section Updated
Apple has revamped the AppleCare & Warranty page under Settings > General. Now, the interface is cleaner, with bigger fonts and better layout. It also shows a clear description of your device’s coverage status.
You’ll now see a “Show More” option for additional devices, and each product’s model (like “AirPods 4 with ANC”) is shown to avoid confusion.
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Accessibility Change : Back Tap Banner
A small but helpful tweak was made to the Back Tap feature. Users can now choose to show or hide a banner that appears when they use Back Tap. This can reduce distractions if you use gestures often.
Satellite Support for iPhone 13 (T-Mobile Only)
One of the most exciting updates: iPhone 13 users on T-Mobile in the U.S. now get carrier provided satellite features. This doesn’t include Apple’s Emergency SOS, but it allows your iPhone to connect to Starlink satellites, like a regular cell tower, without special hardware. This can help when you’re out of signal range.
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Screen Time Notifications for Parents
Parents will now get a notification if their child uses the screen time passcode. If your child guesses the passcode or watches you type it, you’ll be alerted the moment they use it. This adds an extra layer of control.
New Pride Wallpaper and Watch Face
Apple has introduced a colorful “Pride Harmony” wallpaper. It comes with smooth animations and a unique look on the lock screen and always-on display. There’s also a matching Pride-themed watch face for Apple Watch users.
Apple TV Purchases from Third-Party Devices
You can now buy content on Apple TV (like movies) using your iPhone, even if you’re using a third-party device like a smart TV. It makes purchasing easier and more secure.
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Broadcast Extensions Performance Boost
Apple improved how much memory is given to broadcasting tools. If you record your screen or stream live, your video quality should now be better with fewer lags.
Bug Fixes in iOS 18.5
Apple Vision Pro App: Fixed an issue where it showed a black screen.
Notification Center: Improved responsiveness and reduced glitches.
CarPlay Issues: Users no longer need to reconnect their iPhones multiple times. Music playback is more stable.
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Performance and Battery Life
Performance is nearly the same as in iOS 18.4. According to Geekbench scores, there’s a small dip in performance, but it’s not noticeable in daily use. Battery life remains stable. If you were on the beta version, you might notice a slight improvement in battery due to background logging being turned off.
Should You Update?
Yes, especially if:
You use an iPhone 13 and are on T-Mobile (for satellite features).
You want the latest bug fixes and added security.
You’re preparing for iOS 19, which arrives with the first beta on June 9, 2025 during Apple’s WWDC.
Even if the new features don’t excite you, the security patches and improved stability make this update worth installing.
