Apple is testing iOS 26.4 with developers and public beta users, and the update introduces RCS end-to-end encryption testing, a security settings change that enables stolen device protection by default, and a variety of new features in Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Health. The third beta is now available, according to Apple’s release notes.
A public release is expected in late March or early April, depending on the historical release schedule for comparable updates.
Apple Music gets new features with iOS 26.4
One of the main focuses of iOS 26.4 is the Apple Music app. The update adds a number of improvements, including:
- A new Concerts section showing nearby shows and tour dates for artists in your library.
- Full screen animated artwork for albums and playlists.
- A redesigned profile page with easier access to account settings and subscriptions.
- The ability to add a song to multiple playlists at once
Playground with AI playlists
Apple Music is also getting a new AI-powered tool called Playlist Playground. This feature uses Apple Intelligence to generate playlists from text messages. For example, users can type descriptions like “relaxing songs from the 1990s” and the app will automatically create a playlist. Once created, the playlist can be refined with additional prompts.
New background music widgets
iOS 26.4 adds a set of background music widgets that can be placed on the home screen. These widgets allow users to quickly launch music designed for specific moods: relaxation, productivity, sleep, and well-being. Widgets are available in small and medium sizes.
Apple Reminders gets a list of urgent tasks
The Reminders app receives a small but useful improvement. Tasks marked as Urgent will now appear in a dedicated Smart List that shows all urgent items in one place. The feature builds on previously introduced changes that automatically create alarms for urgent reminders.
Encrypted RCS messaging in testing
Apple also added early testing support for end-to-end encryption for RCS messages in the Messages app. When enabled, encrypted chats display a lock icon similar to the one already used for iMessage conversations.
However, Apple says the encryption feature is included for testing only and will arrive in a later iOS update rather than the final version of iOS 26.4.
Apple Podcasts improves video support
The Apple Podcasts app receives a major update focused on video podcasts. The update makes it easier to switch between watching videos and listening to audio versions of podcasts. Apple is also adding support for dynamic video advertising, with streaming powered by its HLS technology to automatically adjust quality based on connection speed.
Apple Health sleep improvements
iOS 26.4 expands the data available in Apple Health. New additions include:
- A new average bedtime metric to track sleep habits
- The return of blood oxygen readings on the vital signs graph
The blood oxygen change follows previous adjustments related to Apple’s ongoing patent dispute over this feature.
Stolen device protection is enabled by default
Apple is also making a security change. Stolen device protection will now be enabled by default for iPhone users. The feature requires Face ID authentication and additional security controls when performing sensitive actions outside of trusted locations, such as home or work.
Many more changes in iOS 26.4
The update also introduces several smaller interface and system changes:
- The search bar in the App Store has returned to the top of the Search tab
- The Wallpaper Gallery has been redesigned with clearer categories.
- Updated Apple Watch face gallery design
- A new accessibility option has been added to Reduce Highlight Effects.
- Control Center popups now appear with dark backgrounds in dark mode
- A new iCloud Search setting lets you search for photos and files from iCloud.com
- Freeform Creator Studio now available for subscribers
iOS 26.4 Release Timeline
iOS 26.4 is still in beta testing and Apple may add or change features before the final release. If testing continues as scheduled, the update will likely roll out to all supported iPhones later this spring.
Apple has not confirmed a final release date for iOS 26.4 nor has it specified which features currently in testing will be included in the final version.
