Apple debuts RC for iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, and more

Apple has shipped the RC (release candidate) versions of iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and more. Here’s what that means.

Apple’s 26.5 RC versions now available for testing, as public launch nears

Today Apple has debuted RC builds for its full lineup of forthcoming 26.5 software updates.

RC versions are rolling out now for:

• iOS 26.5
• iPadOS 26.5
• macOS Tahoe 26.5
• watchOS 26.5
• tvOS 26.5
• visionOS 26.5
• HomePod 26.5

Each software update is available for participants in the developer beta program or public beta program.

You can join Apple’s public beta program for free at beta.apple.com.

Today’s releases are expected to be the final software builds that ship to all users soon—likely next week.

If Apple uncovers any critical bugs that need to be fixed before then, it may ship revised RC builds in the days ahead for further testing.

Earlier today, Apple revealed the new Pride wallpaper coming in iOS and iPadOS 26.5, and accompanying watch face in watchOS 26.5.

Additional new features arriving in the 26.5 lineup include a ‘Suggested Places’ feature in Apple Maps, Messages gaining end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, and more.

We’ll keep you posted on any noteworthy updates or discoveries in today’s RC versions.

How have Apple’s 26.5 software updates been running for you? Let us know in the comments.

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