Apple has released the release candidates for its entire 26-generation software lineup, including iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and macOS Tahoe 26.5. These RC builds represent the final testing phase before public release, following four developer betas that began in late March.

The release candidates arrived with specific build numbers: iOS 26.5 RC 1 carries build 23F75, while macOS Tahoe 26.5 RC 1 is 25F71. Apple also issued RCs for older operating systems, including iOS 18.7.9 and macOS 15.7.7, maintaining support for legacy devices. Earlier beta builds introduced notification forwarding in the EU and continued testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, though one beta accidentally enabled Apple Intelligence in China earlier than intended.

The second developer beta laid groundwork for ads in Apple Maps, signaling Apple's continued push into services revenue. An RC build typically precedes the public release, though Apple may deploy additional candidates if issues surface. The company continues warning users against installing beta software on primary devices due to potential data loss and stability issues.