I’ve been testing iOS updates for over a decade. While iOS 18.5 might seem like a minor release, it addresses several pain points that have been bugging iPhone users for months.
After installing it on my iPhone 16 Pro Max immediately when it dropped on May 12, here are the five standout features that genuinely improved my daily workflow.
What iOS 18.5 Delivered (And Why I Care)
Apple released iOS 18.5 as what might be the final major update before WWDC 2025, and while it’s not groundbreaking, it includes thoughtful refinements that solve real problems. As someone who relies heavily on my iPhone for both personal and professional tasks, these updates hit differently than typical feature additions.
Enhanced Apple Mail Controls
The Mail app finally lets you toggle contact photos directly from the three-dot menu instead of hunting through Settings.
This seems minor, but when you’re managing dozens of emails daily, having quick access to visual preferences makes a real difference. The “All Mail” inbox view is also back and easily accessible, streamlined email management significantly.
Smart Back Tap Notifications
iOS 18.5 introduced banner notifications for Back Tap actions, showing you exactly how many taps were registered.
To enable this, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap and activate “Show Banner.” This feature solved my biggest frustration with Back Tap – never knowing if my double-tap actually registered.
Screen Time Passcode Alerts for Parents
Parents now receive notifications when their Screen Time passcode is entered on a child’s device.
While I don’t have kids yet, I’ve seen how this feature gives parents peace of mind about monitoring device usage without being overly intrusive.
Battery Charge Limit Controls
The new battery charge limit settings let you cap charging anywhere from 80% to 100%. For someone planning to keep their iPhone for 3-4 years, setting an 85% limit helps preserve long-term battery health without the inconvenience of constantly hitting low battery warnings.
Pride Harmony Wallpaper with Motion
Apple’s new Pride Harmony wallpaper features colorful stripes that change position as you move, lock, or unlock your device.
Beyond supporting Pride Month, the dynamic visual effect adds a subtle but engaging touch to the lock screen experience.
The Hidden Gem: Security Fixes That Matter
While these features grab headlines, iOS 18.5’s 33 security patches are the real reason to update immediately.
The update addresses critical vulnerabilities in WebKit, Core Bluetooth, and iCloud document sharing that could expose user data. One particularly concerning fix prevents attackers with physical device access from viewing deleted call recordings.
Should YOU Update to iOS 18.5?
Absolutely. Even if the feature list seems modest, the security improvements alone justify the update. The Mail app tweaks and battery controls provide genuine quality-of-life improvements, while the Back Tap notifications solve a long-standing usability issue.
The update feels like Apple polishing iOS 18 before unveiling iOS 19 at WWDC 2025. For users who prioritize device security and appreciate thoughtful refinements over flashy features, iOS 18.5 delivers exactly what’s needed.
Have you noticed any other subtle improvements in iOS 18.5 that make your iPhone experience smoother? The best updates often hide in the details.