Apple iOS 18.5 Released: Smarter Siri, Satellite Messaging & Key Features Unveiled
Latest iPhone Update Brings AI Enhancements, New Wallpaper, and Improved Parental Controls
May 12, 2025 — Apple has officially released iOS 18.5, introducing a suite of new features designed to enhance the iPhone experience through smarter AI integration, expanded connectivity, and stronger digital well-being tools.
Smarter Siri with Apple Intelligence
One of the most anticipated features in iOS 18.5 is an upgraded Siri, now powered by Apple Intelligence. The voice assistant has become significantly more intuitive, gaining contextual awareness that allows it to interact directly with on-screen content and understand personal context from messages, emails, and calendar events.
For example, users can ask Siri to save an address from an email or recall a movie mentioned in a text—all without switching apps.
Note: These capabilities are available only on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and upcoming iPhone 16 models.
Satellite Messaging Arrives for iPhone 13
In a major connectivity boost, iPhone 13 users on T-Mobile in the U.S. can now send and receive satellite messages via Starlink. This feature enables communication in remote areas without cellular service. It’s currently offered as a free trial through July 2025 and operates independently of Apple’s Emergency SOS system, which remains exclusive to newer iPhones.
Celebrating Pride Month with New Wallpaper
iOS 18.5 debuts a vibrant new “Pride Harmony” wallpaper to celebrate Pride Month. The addition reflects Apple’s continued support for the LGBTQ+ community and its focus on personalization and inclusivity.
Enhanced Parental Controls
The update includes smarter Screen Time controls for families. Parents will now receive real-time alerts when the Screen Time passcode is used on a child’s device—helping to detect unauthorized access and better manage screen usage.
“Buy with iPhone” in Apple TV App
iOS 18.5 also brings support for “Buy with iPhone” in the Apple TV app on third-party devices. This allows users to make secure content purchases without needing to switch devices or log in manually.
Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements
Alongside new features, iOS 18.5 includes several important stability updates:
Fixes a black screen issue in Apple Vision Pro apps
Improves CarPlay reliability and audio playback
Adds detailed AppleCare+ warranty info in the Settings app
Availability
iOS 18.5 is now available as a free update for all compatible iPhone models. Users can download and install it by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update.
