Software updates can either introduce a plethora of new features or significantly transform the user interface, but iOS 18.5 falls into the latter category, being a modest update. Anticipation is in the air for next month’s WWDC, where Apple is likely to unveil iOS 19.

Nevertheless, iOS 18.5 is not devoid of enhancements. After the installation on your iPhone, there are changes you’ll observe, as well as significant underlying tweaks. Let’s delve into what’s new in this latest iteration:

Simplified Method to Disable Contact Photos in Mail

With the rollout of iOS 18.2, Apple revamped its Mail application. While some users found it more streamlined and functional, others viewed it as unnecessarily complicated. The inclusion of contact photos was a point of contention.

For messages from contacts with a photograph, an image appears on the left side in your inbox. If there’s no contact photo, an icon from Apple’s standard collection is used, which many find undesirable.

Fortunately, there’s an option to turn these off—though it was rather hidden for the average user. iOS 18.5 introduces a straightforward toggle directly within the Mail app, making it far more accessible. For a deeper dive into this enhancement, refer to DailyHackly’s Khamosh Pathak’s detailed article here.

Enhanced Security for Screen Time Settings

Apple’s Screen Time feature serves as a powerful tool for parents, though it may feel a bit restrictive for kids. A passcode can lock the Screen Time settings, preventing kids from accessing features their parents wish to restrict. However, clever kids have often found ways around standard passcodes.

In iOS 18.5, while the fundamental passcode system remains unchanged, Apple has introduced an additional layer of security. Users will receive a notification whenever the Screen Time passcode is utilized on their child’s device. This doesn’t eliminate the chance of kids deciphering the code, but it effectively alerts parents should their children attempt any unauthorized access.

Introducing a New “Pride Harmony” Wallpaper

Credit: Apple

To honor Pride Month, Apple has introduced a vibrant new “Pride Harmony” wallpaper for its devices. This design features a rainbow color palette that shifts as you interact with your iPhone or iPad. Additionally, a new Pride Edition Sport Band that echoes the same color scheme is also available. Apple’s vision with this design is to “honor the resilience and vibrancy of LGBTQ+ communities globally.”

While skepticism about corporate involvement in such initiatives is common, it is heartening to observe Apple’s consistent support for the LGBTQ+ community in contemporary times.

“Buy with iPhone” Expands to Third-Party Devices

The “Buy with iPhone” feature that allows users to approve purchases made through the Apple TV app using their iPhone is now also compatible with third-party devices. This enhancement means users no longer need to make a purchase on an Apple device’s app before utilizing it on another platform.

Satellite Features Now Available for iPhone 13 Series

Since 2023, Apple has enabled satellite communication for all iPhones starting with the 14 series. This feature allows users to contact emergency services or send messages even when cellular service is unavailable.

Thanks to the latest update, users of the iPhone 13 series can now also enjoy these satellite capabilities.

Bug Fixes for the Apple Vision Pro App

This update addresses an issue where the Apple Vision Pro app would occasionally show a black screen, enhancing overall user experience.

Security Enhancements

A significant aspect of iOS 18.5 is its security updates, which address over 30 vulnerabilities. Fortunately, Apple has reported no known exploits targeting these issues, suggesting that hackers have yet to leverage these vulnerabilities against users. Nonetheless, it’s wise to perform the update promptly to mitigate any potential risks that might arise.

Additionally, there are certain non-hacking vulnerabilities, including a flaw where the mute button on FaceTime might not function correctly, making this update highly advisable.

For a complete overview of all updates, you can view the full list here.