New Horizons: iOS 18.5 Release Candidate Unveils Satellite Connectivity and Enhanced Apple TV Features for iPhone 13

iOS 18.5 is anticipated to be released to users shortly, with Apple having initiated the distribution of the iOS 18.5 release candidate to beta testers earlier this week. When this update becomes available for compatible iPhone models, users will notice several significant changes in the Apple TV application on third-party devices, along with enhancements to the Screen Time feature in iOS. Additionally, Apple has introduced support for satellite functions on the iPhone 13 through compatible network providers.

New Features and Modifications in iOS 18.5 Release Candidate

The changelog from Apple for the iOS 18.5 release candidate, which was made available to testers on Monday, provides insight into the features we can anticipate from the forthcoming iOS update. It includes a beneficial enhancement to Screen Time, which notifies parents whenever the passcode managing controls is entered on their child’s device. This keeps parents informed if their child successfully guesses the Screen Time passcode to circumvent parental restrictions.

Moreover, satellite connectivity is being extended to select models from the older iPhone 13 lineup. It’s important to note that this connectivity is dependent on the carrier, differing from the Globalstar-enabled satellite connectivity featured in the iPhone 14 and later versions. For instance, T-Mobile customers in the United States will have access to satellite services through Starlink Direct (SpaceX).

The process of making purchases on the Apple TV app via third-party devices has also been streamlined. Users now have the option to select a new Buy with iPhone feature when acquiring content, allowing them to finalize the purchase using their device.

The previous update, iOS 18.4, introduced a new Apple Vision Pro app for users who acquired the Vision Pro spatial computer. The upcoming iOS 18.5 update aims to fix an issue that caused the app to display a black screen during usage, as stated by the company.

Additionally, Apple will feature a new Pride Harmony wallpaper in the upcoming iOS 18.5 update, which is included in the latest release candidate. Users can look forward to experiencing these updates and new features upon the stable version’s release, which could occur as soon as next week unless Apple decides to issue another release candidate.