Apple Launches iOS 18.5 with New Features and Enhancements

CUPERTINO, California — Apple released iOS 18.5 on May 12, introducing several features aimed at improving user experience. Though not the largest update, it offers enhancements that could streamline daily smartphone use.

One notable change is in the Apple Mail app. Users can now control certain settings directly from the app instead of navigating through the iOS settings menu. By clicking the three-dot menu in the top right corner, users can toggle contact photos with ease.

Another feature, Back Tap, allows users to execute actions by tapping the back of their iPhone. The new update includes an option that alerts users whenever they activate Back Tap and tracks how many times they tapped. To enable this setting, users should navigate to the Accessibility section in their Settings app.

The update also enhances Screen Time controls for parents. Now, when a child enters their Screen Time passcode, parents will receive a notification. This change helps parents monitor potential code breaches by their children.

Additionally, improvements have been made in the battery settings. Users can set a charge limit to maintain battery health, which is beneficial for those keeping devices long-term. This setting can be adjusted between 80% to 100% through the battery section in Settings.

In celebration of Pride Month, a new Pride Harmony wallpaper has been added, which users can access by going to Wallpaper settings. This is part of Apple’s ongoing support for the LGBTQ+ community.

While iOS 18.5 may be a lighter update compared to previous versions, it highlights Apple’s focus on user experience and accessibility with new practical features.