iOS 18.5 Developer Beta Is Out Now: What’s New and Should You Update?

Just days after releasing iOS 18.4 to the public, Apple has dropped the first developer beta of iOS 18.5. This update is now available for developers to test on their iPhones.

But don’t expect any major new features. With iOS 19 on the horizon, iOS 18.5 focuses mainly on minor upgrades to existing features, especially Apple Intelligence.

What’s New in iOS 18.5?

The update brings small improvements to Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI system. If you have an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model (including the new iPhone 16E arriving next week), you can use these features:

• Create original emojis
• Proofread emails
• Summarize articles in Safari
• Prioritize notifications
• Analyze audio transcripts
• Reduce interruptions

Siri also gets better with ChatGPT integration. For older iPhones (iPhone XS and later), you can still install iOS 18.5 but won’t get Apple Intelligence features.

iOS 18 in general already brought a redesigned home screen, customizable control center, locked apps, scheduled messages, a new password manager, text via satellite, and a redesigned Photos app.

Should You Download the iOS 18.5 Developer Beta?

Here’s the honest answer: probably not, unless you’re a developer.

Early developer betas are meant for testing apps and finding bugs. They can make your phone unstable. You might experience:

• Apps crashing unexpectedly
• Slow performance or lag
• Faster battery drain
• Overheating

The author of the original article has used developer betas for a decade without major issues, but there’s always a risk. If you have a backup iPhone, use that instead of your main device.

If you still want iOS 18.5 but don’t want bugs, wait for the public beta in a few weeks.

Before You Download (If You Decide To)

Here’s what you need:

• A supported phone (iPhone XS or later)
• Update to iOS 18.4 first
• Back up your iPhone and archive the backup on your computer

How to Enroll in Apple Developer Program for Free

Apple now offers a free tier. Here’s how:

1. Go to the Apple Developer website
2. Tap the menu and select Account
3. Sign in with your Apple ID
4. Read and accept the Developer Agreement

How to Install iOS 18.5 Developer Beta

1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update
2. Tap Beta Updates and choose iOS 18 Developer Beta
3. Go back and tap Download and Install

Using your Mac (if storage is full):

1. Download the restore image from Apple Developer website
2. Connect your iPhone to your Mac
3. Open Finder, select your device
4. Hold Option key, click Check for Update, and choose the downloaded file

Final Thoughts

iOS 18.5 isn’t a game-changer. It’s a small step before iOS 19. If you’re curious and have a spare iPhone, go ahead and try it. But if you rely on your phone daily, it’s safer to wait for the public beta or the official release.