Apple has officially begun rolling out the iOS 18.5 update to eligible iPhone users, introducing several functional enhancements along with vibrant visual upgrades. As the tech world anticipates the upcoming WWDC 2025, this latest update marks a potential final set of changes before the shift toward iOS 19 begins.
One of the most eye-catching features in iOS 18.5 is the addition of a brand-new Pride Harmony wallpaper. This dynamic background shifts its colors depending on the movement and locking status of the iPhone, offering a more interactive and expressive home screen. This update also aligns with the new Pride Harmony watch face launched for Apple Watch users under the watchOS 10.5 version.
Significant improvements have also arrived for the Mail app. iPhone users can now easily toggle Contact Photos using the three-dot menu located in the top-right corner of the Mail interface. Additionally, iOS 18.5 gives users the ability to disable the Group by Sender option and streamlines navigation by placing the All Mail view alongside existing categories like Primary, Updates, Transactions, and Promotions.
Parental control features have received a boost as well. When a child attempts to use the Screen Time passcode, a notification is immediately sent to the parent or guardian, improving transparency and supervision. Apple has also introduced a new “Buy with iPhone” payment feature that simplifies content purchases via the Apple TV app when used on third-party devices.
Expanding its connectivity innovations, iOS 18.5 extends satellite communication support to the entire iPhone 13 lineup. This update, made possible through partnerships with satellite firms such as Starlink, enables users to stay connected in regions lacking cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. A SAT icon will now appear on the status bar when the feature is active.
On the security front, Apple addressed a vulnerability affecting its C1 modem in the iPhone 16e, which could have allowed attackers in privileged network locations to intercept data. The issue has been resolved with improvements to state management and protocol validation. Furthermore, Apple patched flaws across components like Safari, Call History, CoreBluetooth, CoreAudio, FaceTime, and iCloud Document Sharing.
As the iOS 18.5 update sets the stage for Apple’s next wave of innovation, iPhone users can enjoy a blend of personalization, utility, and enhanced protection—just ahead of what promises to be a major reveal at WWDC 2025.
