Apple has released the first beta of iOS 26.4, and it’s a feature-heavy update.

This build focuses on:
- Stronger default security
- App redesigns across the system
- Apple Music expansion
- EU-specific interoperability features
- Utility upgrades for power users
Here’s everything new in iOS 26.4 Beta 1.
Security & Privacy Changes
One major shift:
- Stolen Device Protection is now enabled by default for all users
That means enhanced identity checks and location-based restrictions are automatically active, reducing the risk of account takeover if a device is stolen.
No manual setup required.
Apple Account & iCloud Updates
Apple is consolidating account management:
- New unified Apple Account hub across:
- App Store
- Apple Music
- Apple TV
- Other services
- iCloud settings now include:
- A direct iCloud.com section
- A new “Allow Search” toggle
The goal appears to be simpler account visibility across services.
App Store Changes
Navigation gets adjusted:
- Search has moved to the bottom tab bar
- New splash screen appears on first launch of Apple Creator Studio
Subtle changes, but they alter daily navigation patterns.
Wallpaper & Watch Face Redesign
Both galleries get a major refresh:
- Fully redesigned Wallpaper Gallery
- Organized categories
- Server-based downloads
- Apple Watch Face Gallery now mirrors the same structure
Cleaner browsing. Better organization.
Apple Music Expands Deeply
The biggest visible upgrades land inside Apple Music:
- Full-screen albums and playlists
- Dynamic artwork color theming
- AI-generated playlists via “Playlist Playground”
- New “Concerts Near You” discovery section
- Music profile with name and photo
- Ambient Music widget for Home and Lock Screen
This turns Apple Music into a more visual, discovery-driven experience.
Apple Podcasts Upgrade
Inside Apple Podcasts:
- Full native video playback
- Offline downloads for video podcasts
This aligns the app closer to YouTube-style consumption.
Messages Improvements
In Messages:
- End-to-end encrypted RCS (iPhone-to-iPhone)
- New animated conversation launch effects
Messaging becomes more secure and slightly more dynamic.
Reminders & Productivity
In Reminders:
- New “Urgent” smart list
- Automatic alarms for high-priority tasks
This helps surface time-sensitive items without manual tagging.
Freeform & Shortcuts Updates
For power users:
- Freeform gains:
- Creator Studio Content Hub
- Brand new app icon
- Shortcuts adds:
- Charge limit control action
- Weather location-based triggers
More automation flexibility.
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EU-Exclusive Changes
Under EU regulations, Apple adds:
- Notification forwarding to one third-party wearable
- Proximity pairing for third-party accessories
These changes improve ecosystem openness within the region.
iPad & Localization
- Compact Safari tab bar option returns on iPad
- New Indian English localization added
Subtle, but meaningful for regional users.
iOS 26.4 Beta 1 isn’t just a patch update.
It pushes:
- Default security upgrades
- Service integration
- Apple Music evolution
- Regional compliance improvements
If you care about privacy, automation, or music features, this beta delivers noticeable changes.
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