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iOS 26.5 Beta: Maps Get Ads & New Features
4 Apr
Summary
- iOS 26.5 public beta introduces suggested places in Apple Maps.
- Ads will appear in Maps search results and suggested places.
- RCS message end-to-end encryption is being tested again.
The first public beta for iOS 26.5 is now available, following its developer release a few days prior. A significant addition is the 'Suggested Places' feature within Apple Maps. This tool highlights trending nearby locations, including restaurants and businesses, and also suggests places based on your search history.
Users can access these suggestions by tapping the search bar in the Maps application. This update also brings advertising to Apple Maps. Ads will be integrated into search results and the 'Suggested Places' list, utilizing location data and search queries.
Apple has confirmed these ads will be clearly identified and are designed not to compromise user privacy. Information regarding your location and ad interactions will not be linked to your Apple Account. Personal data remains protected on your device.
Furthermore, Apple is once again experimenting with end-to-end encryption for RCS messages within the iOS 26.5 beta. The company has not yet announced if this encryption feature will be part of the operating system's final stable release.
