Apple released the fourth beta of iOS 26.4 this Monday (9), bringing new emojis and fine adjustments to the system for developers and public testers. The update arrives as part of the final testing cycle before the stable version, expected for the end of March or beginning of April 2026. Usuários subscribers to the beta program can install the new feature immediately via Ajustes > Geral > Atualização from
The new emojis represent the main visible addition, aligned to the Emoji 17.0 standard of Unicode Consortium. Entre they stand out the trombone, the treasure chest, the distorted face (which conveys confusion or discomfort), the hairy creature (inspired by the Pé-large or Sasquatch), the fight cloud (to represent arguments or conflicts), the orca and the landslide (landslide). The beta also includes skin tone variations for existing emojis, such as fighting people and dancers with bunny ears, as well as a gender-neutral option for the ballet dancer.
Apple continues to refine the software with bug fixes identified in previous betas. Pequenas improvements appear in native applications, such as Apple Music, Apple Podcasts and Atalhos (Shortcuts), with optimizations in the interface and general performance. Essas changes aim to prepare the ground for public launch without major new features at this stage.
New emojis expand expression options
The inclusion of these characters follows the annual update of Unicode, which seeks to better represent cultural diversity and everyday situations. The distorted face and the fight cloud stand out because they allow for more nuanced communications in messages. The orca and landslide add elements of nature and events, useful in varied contexts.
Developers are now testing the correct rendering of these emojis in apps and on the iOS keyboard. Apple has adjusted the design to ensure cross-platform compatibility with Android and other systems.
Accessibility and interface adjustments
The option previously called “Reduce Efeitos from Destaque” has been renamed to “Reduce Efeitos from Brilho” in this beta. Essa change improves the experience for users sensitive to bright lights or animations. The feature continues to be available in Ajustes > Acessibilidade > Movimento.
Other fixes address minor glitches in native apps. System stability receives priority in this final testing phase.
Compatibility and beta installation
The iOS 26.4 beta 4 version is compatible with iPhones that already run iOS 26. Dispositivos older ones do not receive support for this line. Usuários from the public beta program access the update via the same path as the developers.
Apple recommends a backup before installing betas, as they may contain instabilities. The final version should arrive soon for all eligible users.
Preparation for the stable release
This fourth beta indicates that the development cycle is approaching its end. Recursos as new emojis appear fully rendered, unlike previous betas where they displayed as squares with question marks. The company focuses on polishing the software to avoid problems in the wide release.
Improvements to apps like Apple Music include navigation refinements and playlist tools. Essas optimizations complement the visual additions and maintain the focus on everyday usability.
Technical details of the update
The compilation brings refinements to the kernel and interface components. Correções security and performance remain a priority, although specific details will not be publicly released at this stage. Usuários report greater fluidity in transitions and lower battery consumption in initial tests.
Apple integrates these changes without drastically altering the user experience. The goal is to deliver a solid and reliable update.
