Apple is testing iOS 26.4 with developers and public beta users. This update brings end-to-end encryption testing for RCS, a security setting change that provides Device Protection by default, and a series of new features in Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Health. According to Apple's release notes, the third beta is currently available.

A public release is expected to be available by the end of March or early April, based on the historical release timing of similar updates.

Apple Music Gains New Features with iOS 26.4

One of the main focal points of iOS 26.4 is the Apple Music app. The update adds many improvements, including:

  • A new Concerts section that shows nearby concerts and tour dates for artists in your library
  • Full-screen animated artwork for albums and playlists
  • A redesigned Profile page that provides easier access to account settings and subscriptions
  • The ability to add a song to multiple playlists simultaneously

AI Playlist Playground

Apple Music is also getting a new AI-powered tool called Playlist Playground that uses Apple Intelligence to create playlists from text prompts. For example, users can write descriptions like "relaxing songs from the 1990s," and the app will automatically generate a playlist. Once created, the playlist can be enhanced with additional prompts.

New Ambient Music Widgets

iOS 26.4 adds a series of Ambient 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. The widgets are available in small and medium sizes.

Apple Reminders Gains Urgent Task List

The Reminders app is receiving a small but useful improvement. Tasks marked as urgent will now appear in a dedicated Smart List that shows all urgent items together. This feature builds on previously introduced changes that automatically create alarms for urgent reminders.

Encrypted RCS Messaging in Testing Phase

Apple has also started adding end-to-end encryption support for RCS messages in the Messages app. When enabled, encrypted chats will display a lock icon, similar to those used for iMessage conversations.

However, Apple notes that the encryption feature is for testing purposes only and will come in a later iOS update rather than the final iOS 26.4 release.

Apple Podcasts Enhances Video Support

The Apple Podcasts app is receiving 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 using HLS technology to automatically adjust quality based on connection speed.

Apple Health Sleep Improvements

iOS 26.4 expands the data in Apple Health. New additions include:

  1. A new average sleep hour metric for tracking sleep habits
  2. The return of Blood Oxygen levels in Vital graphs

The change in blood oxygen levels follows previous adjustments related to Apple’s ongoing patent dispute regarding this feature.

Device Protection Enabled by Default

Apple is also making a security change. Device Protection will now be enabled by default for iPhone users. This feature requires Face ID authentication and additional security checks when performing sensitive operations outside of trusted locations.

More Changes in iOS 26.4

The update also brings several minor interface and system changes:

  • The Search bar in the App Store has been reverted to the top of the Search tab
  • The Wallpaper Gallery has been redesigned with clearer categories
  • The layout of the Apple Watch face gallery has been updated
  • A new Reduced Motion Effects accessibility option has been added
  • Control Center pop-ups have started to appear with dark backgrounds in Dark Mode
  • A new iCloud search setting allows searching for Photos and files from iCloud.com
  • Freeform Creator Studio is now available for subscribers

iOS 26.4 Release Timeline

iOS 26.4 is still in the beta testing phase, and Apple may add or change features before the final release. If the testing process continues as planned, the update could be rolled out to all compatible iPhones this spring.

Apple has not confirmed a specific release date for iOS 26.4 or which features currently in testing will be included in the final release.