Apple continues its iterative software development cycle with new beta releases that bring quality-of-life improvements to iPhone users. The latest iOS 18.5 beta 2 introduces simplified controls for Contact Photos and builds upon the popular Ambient Music feature introduced in iOS 18.4. These updates represent Apple's ongoing refinement of the iOS experience as the company moves toward the eventual release of iOS 19 expected in September.
Streamlined Contact Photos Controls
The iOS 18.5 beta 2 release brings a welcome improvement for users who prefer a cleaner interface in the Mail app. While Contact Photos - the feature that displays profile pictures of your contacts in various apps - has been appreciated by many, some users prefer to disable it in certain contexts. Previously, turning off Contact Photos in the Mail app required navigating through multiple settings menus (Settings > Apps > Mail > Toggle off Show Contacts Photo).
With the new update, Apple has significantly streamlined this process. Users can now simply open the Mail app, tap the three-button menu icon on the right side of the screen, and toggle the Show Contact Photos option directly. This small but thoughtful change demonstrates Apple's attention to user experience details, making it easier to customize the interface according to personal preferences.
iOS 18.5 Beta 2 Key Features:
- Streamlined Contact Photos toggle in Mail app
- Access to Ambient Music features (Sleep, Chill, Productivity, Wellbeing)
- Beta program available through beta.apple.com (no developer fee required)
Ambient Music Expansion
One of the standout features from iOS 18.4 that continues to evolve is Ambient Music, which offers calming soundtracks to help users relax, focus, or sleep. The feature provides four different categories of music - Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Wellbeing - each designed to create a specific mood or atmosphere.
The Ambient Music feature can be easily accessed through Control Center or added to the Lock screen for quick activation. Users can select from default tracks or, with an Apple Music subscription, choose playlists from their own library to replace the default options. This flexibility allows for a highly personalized experience tailored to individual preferences.
Ambient Music Access Methods:
- Control Center (customizable)
- Lock screen shortcuts
- Default tracks available without Apple Music subscription
- Custom playlist selection requires Apple Music subscription
Beta Program Access
For those interested in trying these new features before the official release, Apple has made the beta program more accessible than ever. Users can sign up at beta.apple.com without paying a developer fee. After registration, installing iOS 18.5 beta 2 is as simple as navigating to Settings > General > Software update and following the on-screen instructions.
However, Apple still maintains a distinction between developer and public beta releases. Those who sign up as developers get earlier access to new features but may encounter more bugs or issues. As with any beta software, it's advisable to back up your device before installation to prevent potential data loss.
Looking Ahead to iOS 19
While iOS 18.5 represents an incremental update rather than a feature-packed release, it serves as another stepping stone toward iOS 19, which is expected to debut at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in June before releasing to the public in September. Some anticipated features, like Personal Siri, have reportedly been delayed indefinitely, suggesting Apple is focusing on stability and refinement rather than rushing out potentially problematic new capabilities.
The measured approach to these updates reflects Apple's philosophy of prioritizing user experience and system stability over flashy but potentially buggy features. As iOS 18.5 continues through its beta cycle, users can expect further refinements before the official public release.