[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong] Apple will release the iPhone operating system update iOS 26.5 next week. The update includes feature changes related to Apple Maps, Messages, the App Store, Reminders and wallpapers.

According to IT outlet 9to5Mac on May 7 local time, one of the most noticeable changes is Apple Maps. In iOS 26.5, tapping the map search bar immediately shows "recommended places". Users can first see 2 places on the search screen that may interest them. Apple said the recommendations are based on "places trending nearby and recent search history". It effectively puts a nearby exploration feature front and centre, alongside directly searching for destinations in the Maps app.

The Messages app is also changing. In iOS 26.5, beta support for end-to-end encryption for RCS messages will be added. The iPhone has supported RCS since iOS 18, but this update raises the security level. The feature will not be available immediately from all mobile carriers. It currently applies only to some carriers, and the question is whether more carriers will move to support it after iOS 26.5 is released. Apple saw end-to-end encryption as enabling RCS to provide protection similar to the security iMessage has offered.

Screen customisation elements are also being strengthened. The new "Pride Luminance" wallpaper does not stop at adding a single image and offers more than 11 colour variations. It also includes customisation options. Users can choose the colours included in the wallpaper and combine from 1 up to 12. It maintains the annual trend of adding Pride-themed wallpapers while expanding the range of choices.

Changes to App Store subscription options are also included. From iOS 26.5, apps in most countries can offer a new type of in-app subscription product. In addition to monthly and annual subscriptions, a monthly payment model based on a 12-month commitment will be supported. Users can receive the annual subscription discount without having to pay a large amount at once. It splits an annual fee into 12 monthly payments. The model is initially excluded in the United States and Singapore. Apple did not say when it will expand to those two regions.

In the Reminders app, snooze settings will become more specific. Previously, when delaying an alert, somewhat vague phrases such as "this afternoon" or "this evening" could be shown. In iOS 26.5, exact times will be displayed instead of those expressions. For example, an item that previously appeared as "this afternoon" will now show a specific time such as "Remind again at 3:00 p.m.". Users will be able to more clearly see when an alert will appear again.

This update has a strong character of a mid-cycle check ahead of the release of a major next version. The outlet reported, "With iOS 27 just weeks away from being unveiled, Apple will distribute iOS 26.5 first." As a result, this version appears to focus on refining everyday usability, security and payment convenience rather than a sweeping interface overhaul.

In particular, end-to-end encryption for RCS in Messages and the new subscription model in the App Store are changes that could affect how services are operated, beyond simply adding features. How broadly carriers will actually support it, and how quickly the new subscription model will be introduced in regions outside the United States and Singapore, are expected to be key points to watch after iOS 26.5.