iOS 18.5 Released: New Pride Wallpaper, Mail Upgrades & Satellite Features

 

Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18.5 to the public on May 12, 2025, bringing a fresh Pride Harmony wallpaper, subtle but useful Mail app refinements, and expanded satellite connectivity for iPhone 13 users. While not a major update, iOS 18.5 includes essential bug fixes, security patches, and quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall iPhone experience.

Here’s everything new in iOS 18.5 and why you should install it today.

 

iOS 18.5 Release Date & Compatibility

• Public Release: May 12, 2025
• Supported Devices: iPhone XS and newer, select iPad models
• Update Size: ~500MB (varies by device)

(Note: Older iPhones like the iPhone 8 and X are no longer supported.)

 

Top New Features in iOS 18.5

1. New "Pride Harmony" Wallpaper

Apple continues its tradition of releasing a new Pride-themed wallpaper ahead of Pride Month (June). This year’s design, "Pride Harmony," features:

• Dynamic color-shifting stripes that move as you tilt your phone
• Vibrant, bold colors matching Apple’s inclusive design philosophy
• Available in Light & Dark mode variants

How to Get It:
Go to Settings > Wallpaper > Add New Wallpaper > Pride

2. Mail App Improvements

Apple has refined the Mail app with two key changes:

A. Toggle Contact Photos On/Off Easily

• Previously buried in Settings, you can now quickly hide contact photos (sender avatars) directly from the Mail app.
• How to Disable: Open Mail → Tap ⋯ (More) → Toggle "Show Contact Photos"

B. "All Mail" Category Now More Visible

• Swipe left in the Categories view to reveal a hidden "All Mail" tab (previously hard to find).
• This lets you switch between categorized and classic list views seamlessly.

3. Satellite Connectivity for iPhone 13 Models

• iPhone 13 series now supports emergency satellite messaging (previously limited to iPhone 14 & later).
• Carrier-dependent: Currently, only T-Mobile (via Starlink beta) offers this in the U.S.
• Pricing: Free until July 2025, then $10/month for non-T-Mobile users.

4. Back Tap Now Shows a Confirmation Banner

• Back Tap (double/triple-tap gestures) can now display a small banner when activated.
• Why It’s Useful: Helps avoid accidental triggers.
• How to Enable:
  Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap > Toggle "Show Banner"

5. Screen Time Passcode Alerts for Parents

• Parents now get a notification when someone enters a Screen Time passcode on their child’s device.
• Adds an extra layer of parental control transparency.

6. Buy with iPhone in Apple TV App

• Streamline purchases by using Apple Pay directly in the Apple TV app on third-party smart TVs.

7. Bug Fixes & Security Patches

• Fixes an issue where Apple Vision Pro app could display a black screen.
• Includes critical security updates (always recommended to install).

 

How to Download iOS 18.5

1. Open Settings > General > Software Update.
2. Tap Download and Install.
3. Ensure your iPhone is charged or plugged in.

 

Should You Upgrade?

✅ Yes, if you want:

• The latest security patches
• Smoother Mail app experience
• Satellite messaging (iPhone 13 users)

❌ Wait if:

• You rely on jailbreak tweaks (may break functionality)
• You’re on an older iPhone (no support below XS)

 

What’s Next? iOS 18.6 & iOS 19 Rumors

• iOS 18.6 (expected June/July) may bring minor refinements.
• iOS 19 (coming September) could introduce major AI upgrades, per leaks.

 

Will you be installing iOS 18.5? Let us know in the comments!