Apple released the fourth beta version of iOS 18.4 for developers and public beta, bringing refinements to the system and the inclusion of new emojis that follow the Unicode standard. The update comes at a time when the company is finalizing testing ahead of the stable release scheduled for early April. Usuários beta program participants can install the version through the software update settings on compatible devices.
The company continues the iOS 18.4 development cycle with bug fixes identified in previous betas, stability improvements and optimizations in artificial intelligence features. The fourth beta introduces specific adjustments that aim to improve overall performance, especially in priority notifications and integrations with Apple Intelligence. Desenvolvedores now tests changes to ensure compatibility with applications and hardware.
New emojis arrive in the update
Apple incorporated eight new emojis in beta 4, which were already in preview since previous betas. Esses characters include face with dark circles, fingerprint, ink splash, leafless tree, root vegetable, harp, shovel and flag of Sark.
These emojis follow the recommendations of Unicode 16.0 and expand the expression options in native iPhone and iPad apps. Inclusion allows for greater diversity in everyday messages and visual representations.
A face with dark circles directly represents tiredness or exhaustion. The fingerprint and shovel add practical elements to conversations about safety or manual labor. The harp and splash of paint bring artistic and creative options.
The flag of Sark, an island in Canal of Mancha, completes the list with specific geographic representations.
Additional features under testing
Beta 4 maintains a focus on priority notifications, which organize important alerts at the top based on artificial intelligence. Esse feature helps users quickly identify urgent messages amidst the volume of daily notifications.
The recipes section in Apple News+ gains refinements for subscribers, with improved integration of culinary content. The system allows for more precise searches and personalized suggestions on compatible devices.
Visual intelligence continues to expand, with activation made easier through the Control Center or action buttons on recent models like the iPhone 16. The Esse feature processes images on the screen for actions such as adding events or answering questions.
Fixes and optimizations
Apple has applied fixes to native apps such as Apple Music, Podcasts and Shortcuts. Essas changes resolve playback and automation issues that affected the experience in previous betas.
Thermal stability and battery consumption are adjusted for better performance during prolonged use. Desenvolvedores report reduced heating in intensive tasks after installing the fourth beta.
The company recommends that only beta program participants install the version, as it may still present instabilities in daily use. The final launch should take place in the coming weeks, after complete validation.
Availability and installation
Developers access beta 4 directly through the Apple Developer portal. Usuários from the public beta receive the update via Ajustes > Geral > Atualização from Software.
Compatible devices include iPhones from the XR model onwards and recent iPads. Installation requires prior backup to avoid data loss in case of problems.
Apple plans to expand Apple Intelligence capabilities to more regions and languages with this update. The stable version will bring these new features to the general public without the need for a beta profile.
