Apple has just dropped iOS 18.5, bringing a handful of exciting new features and improvements to your iPhone. One of the most significant additions is the expansion of carrier-provided satellite messaging to the iPhone 13 lineup. This means that T-Mobile users with iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max models can now utilize T-Mobile’s Starlink-powered satellite messaging service. Currently, this service is available for free in the US as a trial, running until July. It’s important to note that this update only provides access to *carrier-provided* satellite features; Apple’s own Emergency SOS via satellite, found on iPhone 14 and later models, is not included.
Beyond the satellite integration, iOS 18.5 offers a fresh coat of visual appeal with a new Pride Harmony wallpaper. This celebratory addition perfectly reflects Apple’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The update also enhances parental controls with a new Screen Time notification system. Parents will now receive an alert whenever their child uses the Screen Time passcode on their device, providing added oversight and peace of mind.
Further refinements include improvements to the Mail app, as reported by 9to5Mac, and a fix for an issue that caused a black screen on the Apple Vision Pro app. Apple also introduced updates for macOS (Sequoia 15.5) and watchOS (11.5), each with their own set of enhancements.
Here’s a quick summary of the full update notes directly from Apple:
* A new Pride Harmony wallpaper
* Parental notifications for Screen Time passcode usage
* Expanded Buy with iPhone functionality within the Apple TV app on third-party devices
* Resolution of the black screen issue in the Apple Vision Pro app
* Support for carrier-provided satellite features on iPhone 13 models (all variants)
Remember that some features might not be available in all regions or on every Apple device. For detailed security information, visit Apple’s support website. Update your devices today and experience the latest and greatest iOS 18.5 has to offer!
