Apple releases RC versions of iOS 18.5, macOS 15.5 and other systems: what's new?
General overview
Apple has introduced Release Candidate (RC) versions of updates to its key operating systems. This is the penultimate stage before the final release, intended for testing and final verification. The innovations concern both user functions and system improvements, including parental controls, mail interface, satellite communications, as well as support for new features in Apple TV and Vision Pro.
Updates include:
- iOS 18.5 RC
- iPadOS 18.5 RC
- macOS 15.5 Sequoia RC
- watchOS 11.5 RC
- tvOS 18.5 RC
- visionOS 2.5 RC
What's new in iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5
- 📨 Apple Mail:
* Updated categories and profile images.
* Improved visibility of emails and filters.
- 🖼️ New wallpapers:
* Apple has added a fresh selection of background images, including dynamic and dark options.
- 👨👩👧👦 Parental Controls (Screen Time):
* Parents now receive a notification if their child uses a passcode to remove restrictions.
* Increased transparency of control over children's devices.
- 🛰️ Satellite Communications for iPhone 13:
* All iPhone 13 models now receive support for satellite features — previously only available starting with iPhone 14.
* Enables emergency messaging and offline communication in case of an emergency.
- 📺 Purchases via iPhone on Apple TV:
* Ability to use the "Buy with iPhone" feature when viewing content on third-party devices (not Apple TV).
What's New in macOS 15.5 Sequoia RC
- Optimizations for the new MacBooks with M4 chips.
- Performance improvements for Safari and the built-in Photos app.
- Support for new security systems and APIs for developers.
Fixes in visionOS 2.5 RC
- Fixed a critical error:
The "black screen" in applications observed on Apple Vision Pro no longer occurs.
Availability
RC versions are already available to registered developers through the corresponding profiles.
It is expected that stable releases will be available to the general public in mid-May.
Expert opinion
Max Blokhin, mobile developer:
"iOS 18.5 does not look like a breakthrough update, but adding satellite functionality to the iPhone 13 is a very important step. This expands the user base prepared for emergency situations without cellular communication."
Anastasia Voronina, technology reviewer:
"Apple has been consistently strengthening parental features, making Screen Time not just statistics, but a tool with real protection measures. This is a big plus for family audiences."
Conclusion
Apple's updates in version 18.5 and 15.5 represent evolutionary improvements aimed at convenience, security, and accessibility. From the introduction of satellite communications on older models to fine-tuning parental controls, Apple continues to focus on user comfort while maintaining traditionally high standards of stability.