Apple has rolled out iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5, marking the fifth iteration of its current-gen operating systems that first launched last September. While the update isn’t packed with major overhauls, it brings a handful of noteworthy improvements, including satellite support for iPhone 13 and enhanced Screen Time notifications for parents.
Smaller Update, But With Handy Additions
The latest update comes just over a month after iOS 18.4 and can be downloaded over the air by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update on compatible iPhones and iPads. The build number for iOS 18.5 is 22F76, which means even users with the Release Candidate (RC) installed will receive a new version.
While this is a relatively minor update in terms of size, Apple has introduced several meaningful tweaks. Most notably, the iPhone 13 lineup now supports carrier-provided satellite features, a functionality previously limited to newer models. However, Apple has clarified that “some features may not be available for all regions or on all Apple devices.”
More Control for Parents, More Colour for Users
For families, Apple is refining its Screen Time feature by sending alerts when a child uses a Screen Time passcode. According to the release notes, “Parents now receive a notification when the Screen Time passcode is used on a child’s device” — a welcome addition for those keeping tabs on screen habits.
A visual treat also arrives in the form of a new Pride Harmony wallpaper, adding a splash of identity and celebration to users’ lock screens.
Bug Fixes and TV App Upgrade
The update addresses several lingering bugs. One issue with the Apple Vision Pro app displaying a black screen has been resolved. Additionally, Apple is expanding the convenience of its services — users can now “Buy with iPhone” when purchasing content within the Apple TV app on a third-party device.
As Apple turns its attention to the upcoming iOS 19 and iPadOS 19, expected to be unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June, there’s still more to come for iOS 18 users. Apple confirmed plans to release iOS 18.6, which will introduce Apple Intelligence to users in China, extending the life of the current generation before the major upgrade cycle begins.
