A Developer’s Guide to Installing the iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Release Candidate

<h2>Introduction</h2> <p>Apple has released the release candidate (RC) versions of iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 to developers for final testing before the public launch. This version comes one week after the fourth beta and is likely the last major update before the official release. If you’re a registered developer, you can install this RC on your iPhone or iPad to test new features and ensure your apps work smoothly. This guide walks you through the process step by step, from preparation to installation, and highlights what’s new in this build.</p><figure style="margin:20px 0"><img src="https://images.macrumors.com/article-new/2026/03/iOS-26.5-Glass-Feature-Warm.jpg" alt="A Developer’s Guide to Installing the iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Release Candidate" style="width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:8px" loading="lazy"><figcaption style="font-size:12px;color:#666;margin-top:5px">Source: www.macrumors.com</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="what-you-need">What You Need</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Apple Developer Account:</strong> Active membership ($99/year) or enrollment in the free developer program (for beta access via Settings).</li> <li><strong>Compatible Device:</strong> An iPhone or iPad that supports iOS 26.5/iPadOS 26.5 (iPhone 15 series, iPad Pro 11-inch/13-inch M4, iPad Air M2, etc.).</li> <li><strong>Stable Internet Connection:</strong> Wi-Fi recommended; the RC build is around 6–8 GB.</li> <li><strong>Sufficient Battery Life:</strong> At least 50% charge, or plug in during installation.</li> <li><strong>Backup (Optional but Recommended):</strong> Use iCloud or a computer to back up your device before installing.</li> </ul> <h2>Step-by-Step Installation Process</h2> <h3>Step 1: Enroll in the Apple Developer Program (If Needed)</h3> <p>If you’re not already a registered developer, visit the <a href="https://developer.apple.com/programs/" target="_blank">Apple Developer website</a> and sign up. Once enrolled, log in with your Apple ID on your device under <strong>Settings > Developer</strong> (this option appears after you enroll). Developers with a free account can also access betas via Settings, but the RC is typically available to all developers.</p> <h3>Step 2: Back Up Your Device</h3> <p>Betas and release candidates can sometimes cause data loss or instability. To be safe, back up your device. Go to <strong>Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup</strong> and tap <strong>Back Up Now</strong>. Alternatively, connect to a computer and use Finder (macOS) or iTunes (Windows).</p> <h3>Step 3: Open the Settings App</h3> <p>On your iPhone or iPad, tap the <strong>Settings</strong> icon. This is where you’ll enable the beta update.</p> <h3>Step 4: Navigate to Software Update</h3> <p>Scroll down and tap <strong>General</strong>, then select <strong>Software Update</strong>. You should see a notice about the iOS 26.5/iPadOS 26.5 release candidate. If it doesn’t appear, ensure your developer profile is installed (go to <strong>Settings > General > VPN & Device Management</strong> and verify the developer profile is present).</p> <h3>Step 5: Download and Install the Release Candidate</h3> <p>Tap <strong>Download and Install</strong>. You’ll need to agree to the terms and conditions. The download may take several minutes depending on your internet speed. Once downloaded, your device will restart and begin the installation. Keep your device plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi during this process.</p><figure style="margin:20px 0"><img src="https://images.macrumors.com/t/2fZSR0qCuu5CcRyF0Lhc6derexo=/2500x/article-new/2026/03/iOS-26.5-Glass-Feature-Warm.jpg" alt="A Developer’s Guide to Installing the iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Release Candidate" style="width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:8px" loading="lazy"><figcaption style="font-size:12px;color:#666;margin-top:5px">Source: www.macrumors.com</figcaption></figure> <h3>Step 6: Complete the Setup</h3> <p>After the installation, your device will reboot. You may see a “Hello” screen and need to enter your passcode. The update is complete. You can verify the version under <strong>Settings > General > About</strong> – look for “Version 26.5” or build number starting with “22F”.</p> <h2>Tips and What’s New in iOS 26.5 RC</h2> <ul> <li><strong>No Siri Upgrades:</strong> Apple hasn’t included new Siri capabilities in this release; those are likely planned for iOS 27.</li> <li><strong>Maps Suggested Places:</strong> The Maps app gains a “Suggested Places” feature that recommends nearby locations based on your search history and trends.</li> <li><strong>RCS Encryption Prep:</strong> Apple continues testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages between iPhone and Android users. This feature was present in the iOS 26.4 beta but removed before launch; it’s back in the RC.</li> <li><strong>New Pride Wallpaper:</strong> A fresh Pride wallpaper matches this year’s Pride Apple Watch band.</li> <li><strong>EU-Specific Features:</strong> In the European Union, the RC supports proximity pairing, notification forwarding, and Live Activities for third-party wearables (like earbuds and smartwatches), bringing them closer to Apple Watch and AirPods functionality.</li> <li><strong>Expected Launch:</strong> The final public version of iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 will likely be released next week. Keep an eye on the <a href="https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/ios-26/" target="_blank">iOS 26 roundup</a> for more details.</li> </ul> <p>For a complete list of changes, refer to the <a href="https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-26-5-beta-features/" target="_blank">iOS 26.5 beta features guide</a>. As a developer, your feedback helps Apple polish the update before public rollout. Enjoy testing!</p>