Apple made available this Monday (16) the first beta version of iOS 26.4 exclusively for developers. The update, identified by build 23E5207q, introduces improvements to several native iPhone applications and strengthens security and content creation features. Desenvolvedores access the new version through the Ajustes app, in the Geral and Atualização section of Software. A public beta is expected to arrive in the coming weeks, with a final release expected in the spring.
The company prioritizes improvements in media and communication apps. Usuários beta program participants are already testing the changes. The version focuses on practical features for everyday life.
Messages gain initial support for encrypted RCS
The Mensagens app supports testing RCS messages with end-to-end encryption. Essa functionality is enabled by default in the update configuration. The feature is currently limited to communications between iPhones for internal validation purposes. Apple plans to expand RCS encryption for cross-platform conversations with Android in future iOS updates. A lock icon indicates when encryption is active in conversations.
The measure increases privacy in rich messages. Desenvolvedores verify the stability of the protocol in controlled scenarios.
Apple Podcasts receives advanced video features
The Apple Podcasts app gains expanded capabilities for video podcasts. Usuários easily switch between audio and video mode during playback. The Apple’s HLS technology automatically adjusts quality depending on the network connection. Criadores get more control over delivery and monetization options with dynamic video ads.
These new features strengthen the audiovisual content format in the app. The experience improves accessibility under different internet conditions.
Apple Music presents redesign and Playlist Playground
Apple Music brings full-screen covers for selected albums and playlists. Animated artwork makes music more prominent during navigation. Usuários find upcoming shows and tour dates directly from the artist’s library. The Perfil section has been redesigned for quick access to frequent actions. Essa updated interface also appears on App Store, Apple Podcasts and Apple TV.
A new AI feature called Playlist Playground lets you create playlists from text descriptions. The system automatically suggests tracks based on user suggestions or predefined options. The tool makes it easy to discover personalized music.
Wallpaper gallery and new widget on the home screen
Galeria of Papéis of Parede has been redesigned with more separated categories and a clean interface. Navigation responds faster to taps. The design follows a similar pattern to the Apple Watch dial gallery.
A new widget on the home screen gives direct access to the Apple Music’s ambient music playlists. The functionality makes it faster to play relaxing content without opening the app.
Device theft protection enabled by default
Proteção against Roubo of Dispositivo is now automatically enabled in iOS 26.4. The feature requires biometric authentication outside of trusted locations, such as home or work. Ações sensitive factors include security delay and second biometric verification. Antes, users had to manually enable the option in security settings.
The change reinforces protection in cases of loss or theft of the device.
Reminders adds smart list for urgent tasks
The Lembretes app incorporates an Lista Inteligente dedicated to tasks marked as “Urgent”. The feature complements the previously introduced Urgente configuration. When defining a task as urgent, the app creates an automatic alarm for notification. The organization improves the management of daily priorities.
Other changes and adjustments to apps
The search bar in App Store returns to the top position in the dedicated tab. Navigation integrates into the bottom bar without a separate floating circle.
The Atalhos app takes action to set the iPhone’s charge limit. Há options to add or remove locations in the Clima app.
- The wallpaper gallery responds faster.
- The icon for Freeform has been updated.
- New splash screen appears on Apple Creator Studio.
iOS 26.4 beta 1 expands creation and security options
The update focuses efforts on media and privacy. Recursos like Playlist Playground and videos on Podcasts attract content creators. RCS encryption in testing sets the stage for greater secure interoperability. Enabling theft protection by default simplifies security for all users.
Developers continue to explore new features. Mais details emerge as testing progresses.
