It’s been just over a week since the release of the third beta of iOS 18.5. Until now, we knew the software update could include two new features: a new category for all Mail emails and an AppleCare banner in Settings. But that might not be all…
Just as we recently reviewed the exact release date of iOS 17.5, iOS 16.5, and earlier software updates to find out when iOS 18.5 might be released, when the first beta of iOS 18.5 came out, we did the same to discover the history of new features in each version.
To no one’s surprise, the “x.5” updates included Pride Month iPhone wallpapers. New clues reveal that iOS 18.5 will be no exception.
Apple Intelligence in China and new Pride wallpapers
Apple celebrates LGBT Pride Month every year by introducing special wallpapers for iPhone and iPad and watch faces for Apple Watch.
While the iOS 18.4 software update came loaded with new features related to Apple Intelligence, it’s no surprise that the iOS 18.5 version doesn’t include as many new features because we’re just six weeks away from WWDC25, where we’ll finally get to know iOS 19, iPadOS 19, macOS 16, watchOS 12, and more.
Additionally, the official release of iOS 18.5 is also said to introduce support for Apple Intelligence in China.
- New Pride wallpapers for iPhone.
- Support for Apple Intelligence in China.
Apple has yet to announce when Apple Intelligence will be coming to China. But according to Mark Gurman, the company is targeting a launch around May 2025. The Asian market is very important for Apple, and Apple Intelligence will be a major driver for increasing the iOS 18 user base.
For now, we’ll have to wait to find out all the new features of this software update, but everything seems to indicate that these will be the two hidden new features of iOS 18.5. As for iOS 19, rumors indicate that the iOS 19 update will incorporate a major redesign with translucent menus, windows with rounded corners, and new icons. All of this is inspired by VisionOS, the operating system of the Apple Vision Pro.
