Apple released the first developer beta of iOS 26.4 on February 16, 2026, introducing a variety of features ranging from enhanced security to AI-driven music customization. This update, carrying build number 23E5207q, is expected to launch to the general public in the spring of 2026.

Key Features and Improvements

• End-to-End Encrypted RCS: Apple is testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS (Rich Communication Services) messages. During this initial beta, the encryption is limited to iPhone-to-iPhone RCS communication and requires iMessage to be disabled for testing. Full cross-platform encryption between iOS and Android is planned for a future update and will eventually utilize the RCS Universal Profile 3.0.

• Playlist Playground: This new Apple Intelligence feature in the Apple Music app allows users to generate playlists of 25 songs using text-based prompts or pre-set ideas like "morning coffee music".

• Enhanced Video Podcasts: The Apple Podcasts app now supports advanced video capabilities using HTTP Live Streaming (HLS), allowing users to switch seamlessly between watching video and listening to audio.

• Stolen Device Protection: Previously an opt-in feature, Stolen Device Protection is now enabled by default. It mandates biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) for sensitive actions when the device is away from trusted locations, such as home or work.

• Unified Apple Account Design: A new Apple Account hub replaces the old profile settings in the App Store, Apple Music, and other system apps, centralizing settings and subscription management.

Visual and System Tweaks

• Wallpaper and Watch Face Gallery: The Wallpaper Gallery features a cleaner, redesigned interface where certain wallpapers are downloaded from a server rather than being pre-installed, saving local storage.

• Reminders: A new "Urgent" Smart List has been added for tasks marked with the urgent toggle, ensuring they trigger an immediate alarm when due.

• Apple Music Enhancements: The app now includes a "Concerts Near You" feature to find local tour dates and redesigned full-screen artwork for albums and playlists.

• Ambient Music Widget: A new widget for the Home and Lock Screen provides quick access to built-in ambient sounds for sleep, productivity, and wellbeing.

Regional and Future Features

• European Union (EU) Changes: To address antitrust concerns, Apple is testing Notification Forwarding to third-party wearables and Proximity Pairing for non-Apple accessories.

• CarPlay Video: Code within the beta suggests Apple is laying the groundwork for CarPlay video playback (including Apple TV) while a vehicle is parked.

• Apple Pay in India: Internal files indicate Apple is preparing to expand Apple Pay to the Indian market.

• New Emoji: While not yet active, system code references upcoming characters like a trombone, orca, and Bigfoot.

Notable Omissions

Despite rumors, the revamped, contextually-aware Siri is not included in this beta. Reports suggest the major Siri update has been pushed to iOS 26.5.

Known Issues

As this is an early beta, some testers have reported performance benchmarks slightly lower than previous versions and specific bugs, such as the Settings app becoming unresponsive when toggling Bluetooth while in Lockdown Mode. Developers are encouraged to report these through the Feedback app.

AI tools were used in the translation.

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