Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.4, and it’s packed with updates across music, podcasts, security, and usability.
While still in early testing, this beta offers a glimpse at what iPhone users can expect in the spring release.
Apple Music: smarter playlists and concert info
- Playlist Playground: Create playlists from text prompts. Describe a mood, activity, or genre, and iOS will generate a curated playlist. You can refine titles, add descriptions, and even adjust tracks with follow-up prompts.
- Concert Discovery: Find nearby shows and tour dates for your favorite artists right inside the Music app.
- Redesigned Album & Playlist Views: Fullscreen artwork now complements the track list for a more immersive experience.
Apple Podcasts: Native video support
iOS 26.4 adds video podcast capabilities using HTTP Live Streaming (HLS):
- Switch seamlessly between watching and listening.
- Download episodes for offline viewing.
- Smooth playback over Wi-Fi or cellular networks.
- Integrates with recommendations and categories already in the app.
This gives creators more control over their content and monetization while offering a richer experience for listeners.
Hotspot data usage per device
The latest update adds a simple way to check hotspot data usage per device, so you can see exactly how much data your iPad, MacBook, or even a friend’s phone has used.
Here’s how you can see this: How to See Who’s Using Your iPhone Hotspot Data in iOS 26.4.
Enhanced iPhone security
- Stolen Device Protection Enabled by Default: iPhones now require Face ID or Touch ID for sensitive actions, protecting accounts even if a thief knows your passcode. Some actions include a brief security delay for extra safety.
- End-to-End Encryption for RCS Messages: Apple is testing secure messaging between iPhone and Android. RCS messages with E2EE will show a lock icon, ensuring conversations remain private. Full cross-platform rollout will come in a later iOS 26 update.
Redesigned interface and widgets
- Apple Account Hub: Unified interface for subscriptions, purchases, and account settings across Music, the App Store, and other apps.
- Wallpaper & Watch Face Galleries: Redesigned layouts make browsing easier, with fluid navigation and clear category sections.
- Ambient Music Widget: Play ambient sounds for sleep, focus, or relaxation from the Home or Lock Screen.
- Freeform Creator Studio: Premium content for subscribers, including graphics, illustrations, and AI tools for creating and editing images.
- Reminders App: New “Urgent” section highlights time-sensitive tasks with alarms and notifications.
- iCloud Web Settings: Manage trusted devices and control search access from iCloud.com.
Set Battery Charge Limit with Shortcuts app
iOS 26.4 adds a new “Set Battery Charge Limit” to the Shortcuts app. For example, you can now set your iPhone to charge to 80% when it connects to CarPlay, and revert back to 100% charge limit when disconnected.
Here’s how you can set it up: How to Use the New “Set Battery Charge Limit” Shortcut in iOS 26.4
Average Bedtime metric and Blood Oxygen in Health app Vitals
iOS 26.4 introduces an Average Bedtime metric in the Health app and restores blood oxygen data to the Vitals overview graph in the U.S.
Audio Zoom for video recording in Camera settings
Apple has added a new Audio Zoom toggle in the Camera settings, letting your iPhone focus sound on whatever you zoom in on while recording video. You can easily switch it on or off based on your audio preference.
App Store search bar moves to the top
Apple has repositioned the App Store’s Search bar back to the top of the Search tab. The Search tab itself is now part of the bottom navigation bar, replacing the separate floating button design.
Minor but notable updates
- Messages App: Smoother animations when opening conversations.
- Notification Forwarding in EU: Supports third-party wearables alongside Apple Watch. Present in earlier iOS 26.3 betas, it didn’t make the final relase, but is no present in iOS 26.4 beta.
- New Emoji Coming Soon: Code hints at future characters like Bigfoot, trombone, treasure chest, and more.
Looking ahead
iOS 26.4 is currently developer-only, with a public beta expected in the next few weeks. The full release is planned for spring 2026. This update demonstrates Apple’s focus on:
- Enhancing creative tools like Playlist Playground and Freeform Creator Studio
- Strengthening security with default protections and cross-platform encrypted messaging
- Refining the user experience through interface updates and optimized widgets
iOS 26.4 promises a more polished, versatile, and secure iPhone experience.
