iOS 18.5 Update: Security Fixes, Supported Devices & What’s New

iOS 18.5 is here — officially released on 12 May 2025 — and while it may not come with fireworks or fancy new features, it does pack something far more important: security.

Apple’s ongoing commitment to a security-first approach continues with this update, focusing on patching critical vulnerabilities that could have left your device wide open to all sorts of digital mischief. 

Think of it as a digital flu shot for your iPhone — not glamorous, but absolutely necessary.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about iOS 18.5, including;

• Which iPhones and iPads are getting the update
• What security fixes are included
• Why your FaceTime mic may finally behave
• Answers to FAQs like, “Will it murder my battery?”
  

Let’s get into it. No jargon. No fluff. Just the need-to-knows with a touch of Kiwi wit.

Which iPhones Will Get iOS 18.5?

Not every iPhone gets to join the iOS 18.5 party — and no, waving your phone at an Apple Store won’t change that. This update is available only for iPhone XS and later.

Supported iPhones:

• iPhone 15 / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 / 14 Pro
• iPhone 13 / 13 Pro
• iPhone 12 / 12 Pro
• iPhone 11 / 11 Pro
• iPhone XS / XS Max / XR
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
  

Special Mention: iPhone 16e

If you’ve already jumped on the iPhone 16e train — lucky you — iOS 18.5 includes a device-specific optimization for performance tuning. Translation: your brand-new phone just got even snappier.

Supported iPads (in case you’re curious):

While this article is iPhone-focused, the update also applies to:

• iPad Pro (all M-series models)
• iPad Air (3rd gen and up)
• iPad (7th gen and up)
• iPad mini (5th gen and up)

For the official compatibility list, check out Apple’s page: Apple iOS 18.5 Security

What Does iOS 18.5 Update Do?

Short answer? It tightens the digital bolts. iOS 18.5 is a security-first update, not a glam makeover. So if you were hoping for fancy new widgets or a Siri that makes you coffee — not this time, mate.

Main Focus: Security & Privacy

Apple’s been very upfront: iOS 18.5 is all about patching vulnerabilities and improving privacy across the board. Think of it like bug spray for your phone — not flashy, but absolutely essential.

No Major Visual Changes

You won’t see any major changes to your Home Screen, lock screen, or anything screen, really. It’s what’s under the hood that counts here — and there’s a lot going on beneath the surface.

Vulnerabilities Patched

Apple tackled several security gaps involving media handling, Safari, the system kernel, and more. These fixes help prevent hackers from sneaking in via malicious files, dodgy websites, or sketchy apps.

Reminder: Apple doesn’t disclose vulnerability details until they’re fully patched — just to keep the bad guys in the dark.

iOS 18.5 Security & Privacy Fixes (Key Highlights)

Apple’s iOS 18.5 update isn’t just plugging a hole or two — it’s reinforcing the whole ship. Let’s break down the major security fixes in plain English, without the tech jargon headache.

1. Media & File Handling Fixes

Stops hackers from sneaking into your phone using malicious videos, audio files, or documents.

Key vulnerabilities patched:

• CVE-2025-31251 – Fixes a flaw where viewing a specially crafted video could compromise device security.
• CVE-2025-31239 & -31233 – Protects against tampered audio or file types that could be used to inject harmful code.
  

This shuts down one of the most common attack vectors used in phishing and malware scams.

2. Privacy Enhancements

Patches some odd behaviours where deleted data wasn’t quite gone.

• CVE-2025-31225 – Fixed a bug where deleted call history still popped up in Spotlight search. That’s gone now.
  
• CVE-2025-31253 – Improved the reliability of FaceTime microphone muting. No more silent leaks when you thought you were muted.
  

These changes ensure your deleted data stays deleted — and your conversations stay private.

3. WebKit (Safari) Security Updates

Secures Safari and any app that uses WebKit under the hood (which is most of them).

• Vulnerabilities fixed: CVE-2025-31204, -31205, -31215, and more.
  
• Focus areas include improved memory management and better protection against spoofing attacks.
  

WebKit flaws can be exploited through something as simple as visiting a dodgy website. These patches reduce that risk dramatically.

4. Device & App Data Protection

Closes off weak points where apps could sneak a peek at things they shouldn’t.

• Fixes cover potential loopholes in access to Notes, call recordings, and app enumeration (where one app could tell what other apps you had installed).
  

These fixes help prevent data leakage and app-based surveillance.

5. Kernel and System Stability

Strengthens the core of iOS to prevent crashes and system-level hacks.

• CVE-2025-31245 & -31226 – Address issues with kernel memory handling that could have led to crashes or worse, system takeovers.
  

These improvements make iOS more stable and less susceptible to deep-level exploits.

New iOS 18.5 Features: Are There Any?

Let’s cut to the chase — no, iOS 18.5 doesn’t bring shiny new features, flashy redesigns, or AI-powered surprises. This update is laser-focused on one thing: security.

What’s Not Included

• No visual changes: Your Home Screen, widgets, and Control Center will look exactly the same.
• No new apps or tools: There are no added functionalities or settings to explore this time around.
• No Apple Intelligence (AI): Despite the buzz around AI in upcoming iOS versions, iOS 18.5 does not include any Apple Intelligence features. Expect those in iOS 18.0 or later major releases.
  

Why That’s a Good Thing

While feature updates get all the hype, security updates like this one do the heavy lifting behind the scenes. iOS 18.5 is about making sure your device doesn’t turn into a welcome mat for hackers, not giving you new toys to play with.

Does iOS 18.5 Drain Battery?

We get it — nothing kills the vibe faster than a battery that drains faster than your weekend plans. So here’s the scoop:

No Widespread Battery Drain Reported

Apple hasn’t documented any battery issues related to iOS 18.5. Early reports from users also suggest everything’s running smooth — so no, this update isn’t secretly sipping your battery juice in the background.

A Heads-Up on Temporary Drain

Right after you update, your iPhone might feel a bit extra — indexing photos, files, and re-optimizing apps. That can cause a short-lived drop in battery life. Don’t panic — it usually settles in a day or two.

Battery Tip: Check Your Battery Health

After updating, head to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. It’s a good habit. If your Maximum Capacity is dipping below 80%, your battery might be due for a little TLC — update or not.

Does iOS 18.5 Include Apple Intelligence?

If you’ve been waiting for the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence features (AI-driven magic to make your phone feel smarter), you might want to take a seat. Here’s the lowdown:

Spoiler Alert: No, Apple Intelligence is Not Included

While iOS 18.5 brings some crucial security patches and fixes, it’s not the version where you’ll see Apple’s shiny new AI features. It was already released with 18.4 update. The focus is all about tightening up the security belt — no new fancy AI tricks this time around.

Apple Intelligence in iOS 18 and Beyond

For those still hopeful, hold tight: Apple Intelligence is slated for future iOS versions — think iOS 18 or later. So, the real AI-driven features are on the horizon, just not in this particular security release.

FAQs related to iOS 18.5