Apple confirms release date for iOS 18.5 update

In the United States, Apple is preparing for the imminent release of iOS 18.5, its next iPhone software update. On May 6, 2025, Apple made a significant step in this direction by unveiling the iOS 18.5 Release Candidate, a version that is expected to roll out to the public if it passes bug testing. This release candidate emerged just a week after the previous beta version, indicating that Apple is on track with its release schedule. Additionally, the timing of this update aligns with the introduction of the Apple Watch Pride Edition Sport Band, which Apple announced on May 5, 2025, stating that it would go on sale starting the week of May 12. The recent announcement confirmed that various software updates, including watchOS 11.5 and iPadOS 18.5, will launch concurrently with iOS 18.5. This coordination between hardware and software releases is typical for Apple, reinforcing the expectation that the software updates will arrive in sync as they have in previous years. Analysts speculate that Apple will likely choose either May 12 or May 13 as the release date, based on its pattern of mid-week launches. Therefore, with no major snags expected, users can anticipate that iOS 18.5 will be available to the public soon, portraying a closely integrated ecosystem of products Apple continues to foster.