Apple is about to release a new iPhone update called iOS 18.5. This update adds cool features like satellite help for iPhone 13, better Mail app controls, a colorful Pride wallpaper, and safer Screen Time settings. The update is not huge, but it makes your iPhone easier and safer to use.
The update is expected to arrive on Monday, May 13. Apple has already given developers a test version to fix last-minute bugs.
iPhone 13 Gets Satellite Help (But There’s a Catch)
Good news for iPhone 13 owners. The iOS 18.5 update lets you use satellite features in emergencies, like calling for help when there’s no cell service. But there’s a catch. This only works if your phone company supports it. Right now, only T-Mobile in the U.S. offers this feature.
The iPhone 14 and newer models already have this satellite feature. Apple added it to the iPhone 13 to help more people stay safe. When you’re hiking or lost, your iPhone 13 can now send emergency messages via satellite.
Mail App Upgrades Make Organizing Easier
Apple made two small but helpful changes to the Mail app. First, you can now show or hide contact photos (the tiny pictures next to emails) without going into Settings. Second, you can turn off the “Group by Sender” view, which groups emails from the same person.
These changes save time. Before, you had to dig through Settings to adjust these options. Now, everything is in the Mail app.
New Pride Wallpaper Celebrates LGBTQ+ Community
Apple added a bright, moving Pride wallpaper to iOS 18.5. The design has rainbow colors that shift when you tilt your phone or unlock it. This is part of Apple’s yearly tradition to support LGBTQ+ rights.
Apple’s products section also includes the Pride-themed Apple Watch bands, with the company donating money to LGBTQ+ groups. CEO Tim Cook, who openly is gay, has made this a priority for Apple.
Screen Time Just Got Safer for Parents
No More Secret Passcode Sharing
Parents will love this change. The Screen Time feature, which lets adults limit kids’ phone use, now alerts parents if someone enters their passcode on their child’s iPhone. This stops kids from spying on the passcode and turning off Screen Time limits.
For example, if your child guesses your passcode and tries to disable Screen Time, you will get a notification right away.
Other Fixes and Updates
The iOS 18.5 update also fixes small problems. One bug made the Apple Vision Pro app show a black screen sometimes. Another new feature lets you use your iPhone to buy movies or shows in the Apple TV app on other devices, like a Roku or smart TV.
Apple also introduced fixes for security issues, but has yet to provide the details. These most certainly seal suspect holes that the hackers might exploit.
When Can You Get the Update?
The iOS 18.5 update will come to iPhones the week starting May 13. It is compatible with all iPhones that support iOS 18 and above, including the newer iPhone XR. Once the download is live, you can download it by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Although this update is not full of flashy features, it makes your iPhone safer, customizable enough, and ready for emergencies.