Apple’s latest software update for iPads, iPadOS 18.5, is here! While it’s not packed with flashy new features, it brings important improvements that make your iPad more secure, easier to use, and better at managing daily tasks.
Whether you’re a student, parent, or someone who loves getting the most out of their iPad, this update has something for you. Let’s dive into everything you need to know!
What’s New in iPadOS 18.5?
Here’s a quick overview of the key changes:
| Feature | What’s Improved |
|---|---|
| Mail App | Toggle contact photos and access "All Mail" faster. |
| Parental Controls | Get alerts if kids bypass Screen Time limits. |
| Pride Wallpapers | New dynamic wallpapers with unlock animations. |
| Apple Care & Warranty | Redesigned settings to track device coverage. |
| Apple TV Purchases | Approve purchases on TVs using your iPad. |
| News+ Recipes | 70,000+ recipes for subscribers. |
| Messages & Cellular | RCS support in India, 5G for Airtel users. |
| Battery Life | Better performance on M4 iPad Pro. |
| Security | Important bug fixes and protections. |
1. Mail App Upgrades
Simpler Settings & Smarter Organization
The Mail app now lets you control how your inbox looks without digging through menus. Here’s what’s new:
-
Show/Hide Contact Photos:
Tapping the three dots (•••) in the top-right corner lets you turn contact photos on or off. Before, you had to go into Settings > Mail to adjust this. Now, it’s just one tap! -
All Mail Category:
If you use categories like “Primary” or “Promotions,” you’ll notice a small arrow hinting at the “All Mail” section. Swipe left to see all your emails in one place, no matter which category they’re in.
Why It Matters:
These tweaks save time and make organizing emails easier. If you’re curious about how this compares to older versions, check out our breakdown of the differences between iPadOS 18.5 and 18.4.
2. Better Parental Controls
Stay in Control of Screen Time
Parents will love this: iPadOS 18.5 now sends a notification whenever someone enters the Screen Time passcode. If your child guesses the code to extend their social media time, you’ll know right away!
How It Works:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time.
- Tap “Family” and select your child’s device.
- Enable “Notify When Passcode Is Used.”
Why It Matters:
This helps parents enforce healthy screen habits. For more ways to manage your family’s iPad use, explore our iPadOS 18.5 tips for setting up Screen Time.
3. New Pride Wallpapers
Celebrate with Color
Apple added vibrant new wallpapers to celebrate Pride Month. These backgrounds shift colors when you unlock your iPad, creating a rainbow effect.
How to Try Them:
- Go to Settings > Wallpaper.
- Tap “Add New Wallpaper.”
- Scroll to the Pride section and pick your favorite design.
Why It Matters:
It’s a fun way to personalize your iPad while supporting inclusivity.
4. Apple Care & Warranty Made Easier
Track Your Coverage in One Place
The Apple Care & Warranty section in Settings now shows all your devices in a cleaner layout. You can check:
- Which gadgets are covered.
- When warranties expire.
- How to renew Apple Care.
How to Find It:
- Open Settings > General.
- Tap Apple Care & Warranty.
Why It Matters:
No more guessing if your iPad or iPhone is still under warranty!
5. Approve Apple TV Purchases on Your iPad
Say Goodbye to TV Typing
If you rent a movie on a Samsung or LG TV using the Apple TV app, iPadOS 18.5 lets you approve the purchase directly on your iPad instead of typing your password on the TV remote.
How It Works:
- Start renting a movie on your TV.
- A notification pops up on your iPad.
- Tap “Approve” to confirm.
Why It Matters:
This makes buying movies safer and faster.
6. News+ Recipe Catalog
Cook Smarter with 70,000 Recipes
Apple News+ subscribers now get access to a massive library of recipes from top food magazines. Perfect for homework projects or family dinners!
How to Find It:
- Open the News app.
- Tap the Food tab.
Why It Matters:
It’s like having a cooking assistant built into your iPad!
7. Messages & Cellular Updates
Better Chats and Faster Data
-
RCS Support in India:
Texting Android friends? RCS (Rich Communication Services) lets you send high-quality photos and videos without compression. Enable it in Settings > Messages > RCS Messaging. -
5G Standalone for Airtel Users:
Cellular iPad users in India can now enable faster 5G connections. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data and select “5G Standalone.”
Why It Matters:
Stay connected with clearer messages and quicker downloads.
8. Battery Life Improvements
Longer Use, Less Charging
Apple claims iPadOS 18.5 optimizes battery performance, especially for the M4 iPad Pro. Tests show:
- Light Use (web browsing, videos): Up to 12 hours.
- Heavy Use (video editing, gaming): Around 9 hours.
Why It Matters:
Fewer charges mean more time for homework or games.
9. Security Updates
Stay Protected
iPadOS 18.5 includes fixes for security vulnerabilities. While Apple doesn’t share specifics, these updates help block hackers and keep your data safe.
Why It Matters:
Always update to protect your personal information!
Should You Update to iPadOS 18.5?
Yes! While iPadOS 18.5 isn’t revolutionary, it polishes existing features and adds helpful tools for families, cooks, and anyone who wants a smoother iPad experience.
How to Install iPadOS 18.5
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
Note: The update is 7.5 GB, so make sure you have at least 12-15 GB free.
iPadOS 18.5 vs. Older Versions
Curious how this update stacks up? Our comparison of iPadOS 18.5 and 18.4 explains which improvements are brand-new and which were introduced earlier.
FAQs About iPadOS 18.5
1. Is iPadOS 18.5 worth installing?
Yes! While it doesn’t have flashy new features, iPadOS 18.5 improves security, adds helpful tools for parents, and polishes apps like Mail and News+. The update also includes important bug fixes to keep your iPad running smoothly. If you want to learn more about how it compares to older versions, check out our detailed comparison of iPadOS 18.5 and 18.4.
2. Will my older iPad get iPadOS 18.5?
If your iPad supports iPadOS 18, it will receive the 18.5 update. This includes most iPads released in the last five years. To confirm compatibility, go to Settings > General > About and check your model.
3. Does iPadOS 18.5 improve battery life?
Yes! Users report better battery performance, especially on the M4 iPad Pro. Light tasks like web browsing or streaming can last up to 12 hours, while heavy use (like gaming or editing) lasts around 9 hours. For tips on maximizing your iPad’s battery life, explore our optimization guide.
4. Do I need Apple News+ to use the new recipe feature?
Yes. The 70,000+ recipe catalog in the News app is only available to Apple News+ subscribers. If you don’t have a subscription, you’ll see a prompt to sign up when accessing the Food section.
5. What happens after iPadOS 18.5?
Apple will likely announce iPadOS 19 at WWDC 2025 in June. This update is expected to bring bigger changes, especially for iPad Pro users. Until then, iPadOS 18.5 will be the final major update for this cycle.
Conclusion
iPadOS 18.5 is a small but meaningful update that focuses on refining your iPad experience. From stronger parental controls to vibrant new wallpapers, it adds practical tools while keeping your device secure. Whether you’re managing screen time for kids, exploring recipes, or just want a smoother Mail app, this update has something for everyone.
Don’t forget to install it to enjoy the latest improvements and protections. And if you’re curious about hidden features, dive into our guide to mastering iPadOS 18.5 to unlock even more tricks!