Apple has released iOS 18.5 Beta 2

 April 22, 2025 — Cupertino, CA

Apple has released iOS 18.5 Beta 2 to developers (April 14) and public testers (April 22), giving iPhone 16 users an early look at minor but welcome tweaks ahead of the full release expected in mid-May. This update focuses on refining core apps, polishing the interface, and squashing bugs to ensure a smoother experience on Apple’s latest hardware. (Apple Releases New iOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 Public Betas - MacRumors, iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

Mail App Customization

Beta 2 continues Apple’s iterative adjustments to the Mail app, responding to user feedback on the new design introduced in iOS 18.2. Two key changes stand out for iPhone 16 users:

• Toggle Contact Photos: You can now disable the enlarged contact photos directly within Mail by tapping the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and switching off “Show Contact Photos,” rather than digging into Settings.

• All Mail Tab: The previously hidden “All Mail” section now appears as a dedicated fifth tab alongside Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions, making it far easier to access your unfiltered inbox. (Everything New in iOS 18.5 Beta 2 - The Mac Observer, iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

Streamlined AppleCare Display

In Settings → General → AppleCare & Warranty, Beta 2 introduces a refreshed banner that puts your warranty status front and center. A new link takes you straight to detailed coverage information, and you can manage your AppleCare plan more seamlessly by selecting devices from your Apple Account list. (Everything New in iOS 18.5 Beta 2 - The Mac Observer, Apple Releases New iOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 Public Betas - MacRumors)

Bug Fixes & Performance Improvements

Under the hood, iOS 18.5 Beta 2 fixes several issues affecting newer hardware:

• Vision Pro App: The bug causing the app to launch to a black screen on iPhone has been resolved.

• HVF Framework: A system-level fix ensures iOS correctly checks for certain C APIs in the hvf (Hypervisor Framework), restoring reliable access to hardware features for developers.

• General Stability: Additional tweaks optimize background tasks and reduce crashes for a snappier feel on A16-powered devices. (Everything New in iOS 18.5 Beta 2 - The Mac Observer, Apple Releases New iOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 Public Betas - MacRumors)

What iPhone 16 Users Should Know

• Beta Disclaimer: As with all pre-release software, Beta 2 may impact battery life and exhibit unforeseen bugs. Apple recommends installing it on a secondary device rather than your daily driver. (iOS 18.5 Public Beta 2 Just Dropped. Don't Get Too Excited - CNET)

• Release Timeline: Following Beta 2, Apple is expected to seed iOS 18.5 Beta 3 in late April, with the public release likely landing in the third week of May—consistent with past .5 updates. (iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)

• Looking Ahead: iOS 18.6 developer betas should begin in May, but the next headline features will arrive with iOS 19 at WWDC in June. (iOS 18.5: Features, release date, and more - 9to5Mac)