Apple has released the first beta of the upcoming iOS 26.4 update to developers, introducing several new features for the iPhone. Key additions include video podcasts, updates to Stolen Device Protection, end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, a new Apple Music playlist generation tool, and more. A public beta is expected soon, with a full launch anticipated this spring.
Key Features in iOS 26.4 Beta
Playlist Playground
Apple Music now includes "Playlist Playground," a feature allowing users to create playlists using text prompts.
Users can type ideas, moods, or feelings, or use pre-set suggestions like "morning coffee music." The system automatically generates a 25-song playlist with a custom title, which can be further customized. This feature is currently limited to the United States.
Apple Music Enhancements
The Apple Music app has added a "Concerts Near You" feature to help users find local shows and tour dates. Album and playlist designs have been revamped with full-page artwork. Users can now also add a single song to multiple playlists simultaneously.
Apple Podcasts
Video podcast capabilities are being integrated into the Apple Podcasts app. This feature uses HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) to offer creators control and monetization opportunities while providing a high-quality viewing experience.
Users will be able to switch between watching and listening, download videos for offline viewing, and benefit from smooth playback across network conditions. The new video episodes will integrate with existing Apple Podcasts features.
Stolen Device Protection
Stolen Device Protection is now enabled by default for all iPhone users, shifting from an opt-in feature. This security measure, introduced in 2023, requires Face ID or Touch ID for accessing sensitive iPhone features (e.g., Passwords app, Lost mode in Find My, Safari purchases) to prevent unauthorized access after a device theft where the passcode was compromised. Some features have a one-hour security delay without authentication.
End-to-End RCS Encryption for Messages
iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4 are testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages. This security feature aims to extend full encryption to cross-platform messaging, specifically between iPhone and Android devices, which was previously unavailable. Apple is collaborating with the GSM Association for this implementation.
Messages with E2EE will display a lock icon. Initial testing focuses on iPhone-to-iPhone RCS encryption, with broader rollout for iPhone and Android conversations expected in a future update.
Messages App
New animations have been added to the Messages app, such as those for launching a new conversation.
Apple Account Unified Design
A new unified Apple Account hub has been introduced in apps like the App Store and Apple Music, replacing existing profile features. This hub offers similar functionality with a redesigned interface. The App Store's navigation has been updated, with app updates now requiring two taps and the search bar located at the top.
Ambient Music Widget
A new Ambient Music widget is available for the Home and Lock Screen, offering built-in ambient music options for various purposes like sleep or productivity.
Wallpaper and Watch Face Gallery
The Wallpaper Gallery and the Watch Face Gallery in the Apple Watch app have received updated designs, allowing wallpapers from various categories to be downloaded directly.
Freeform Creator Studio
Freeform Creator Studio is active in iOS 26.4, providing subscribers with new Freeform features. This includes a dedicated Content Hub with Freeform shape options and access to free, high-quality graphics, photos, and illustrations. AI capabilities for image creation and editing are also included for Creator Studio users. The Freeform app also features a new icon.
Reminders
The Reminders app now includes an "Urgent" section. Reminders marked as urgent during creation will appear here and will have an accompanying alarm.
iCloud Web Settings
The iCloud section in Settings now features an "iCloud.com" option at the bottom, replacing the previous "Access iCloud Data on the Web" toggle. This setting includes a new "Allow Search" toggle for trusted Apple devices to provide search results to iCloud.com.
Health App
The Health app introduces a new "Average Bedtime" metric in the sleep section. For users in the U.S., the Vitals section's blood oxygen level graph now includes a daily measurement overview, a feature absent in previous iOS versions.
Camera
A new "Audio Zoom" option has been added to the Camera app settings. When enabled, recorded audio will focus on the subject as the camera zooms during video recording.
CarPlay
CarPlay will now provide access to AI services like Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT. Users can access voice-based chatbot apps hands-free, though these apps cannot control vehicle or iPhone functions.
There will be no wake word; users must launch the app manually. Customization options for voice control screens are available for vehicle-optimized chatbot experiences. Third-party app support is required for this feature. Mentions of Apple TV support for CarPlay suggest future capabilities for watching Apple TV content on car dashboards when the vehicle is stationary.
Hotspot Data
The location of hotspot data usage metrics has been moved to the Personal Hotspot section, making it more accessible.
Live Captions
Chinese (Taiwan) has been added as a new language option for Live Captions in the Accessibility section.
Passcode Settings
In the Face ID and Passcode section, the text for entering a passcode is now center-aligned.
Shortcuts
A "Set Charge Limit" action has been added to the Shortcuts app, allowing users to set a battery charge limit for the iPhone.
New Emoji
While iOS 26.4 does not include new emoji, code references indicate that new characters are expected in a future beta. Upcoming emoji include trombone, treasure chest, distorted face, hairy creature, fight cloud, apple core, orca, landslide, and ballet dancers.
Notification Forwarding for Third-Party Devices (EU)
A "Notification Forwarding" setting, previously tested in iOS 26.3 beta, returns in iOS 26.4 beta. This feature allows incoming iPhone notifications to be forwarded to a single third-party wearable device (e.g., Android smartwatch) and is limited to the European Union.
If enabled, the Apple Watch will not receive notifications. This change addresses antitrust concerns regarding third-party wearable access to notifications.
Proximity Pairing - EU Only
Europe-only changes for third-party wearables, including Proximity Pairing, are also being tested. Proximity Pairing enables one-tap pairing of third-party accessories with an iPhone or iPad by bringing them close to the device, similar to AirPods. This feature was not enabled in iOS 26.3 and may also arrive in iOS 26.4.