Apple Advances RCS Encryption and Enhances Apple Podcasts and Music with iOS 26.4 Beta

Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26.4, bringing with it several key updates including the initial testing phase for conclude-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, a revamped Apple Podcasts experience with video support, and enhancements to the Apple Music app. The update, build number 23E5207q, arrives less than a week after the public release of iOS 26.3.

End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging Testing Begins

The iOS 26.4 beta introduces the ability to test end-to-end encrypted RCS messages, a feature Apple announced plans for in March 2025. Currently, this testing is limited to iPhone-to-iPhone messaging with iMessage disabled. Full cross-platform testing with Android devices will be available in a future iOS 26 update. Apple confirmed that the end-to-end encryption feature will not be included in the initial iOS 26.4 release, but will roll out to beta users gradually.

A recent toggle in the Settings app enables this testing feature, though access isn’t immediately available to all beta users. When RCS encryption is enabled, a lock icon will appear in the chat thread, indicating a secure connection. MacRumors reports that Apple has been working with the GSM Association to implement this encryption.

Apple Podcasts Gains Video Support

A significant update arrives for Apple Podcasts with the introduction of video playback capabilities. Users can now select and view video episodes directly within the Apple Podcasts app, seamlessly switching between audio and video formats. Downloaded episodes are as well available for offline playback. Apple is utilizing HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology to deliver this enhanced experience, which also allows for dynamic video ad insertion, potentially increasing revenue opportunities for podcast creators. Wccftech details this new functionality.

Apple Music Receives Several Enhancements

The Apple Music app also benefits from several improvements in iOS 26.4 beta 1:

• Concerts Near You: A new feature allowing users to discover live shows in their area, complete with tour dates.
• Playlist Playground (Beta): Users can input text prompts to generate playlists of 25 songs, or utilize pre-defined playlist ideas.
• Music Profile: A new section within Apple Music allows users to select a name and photo that will be visible when sharing music with others.
• Visual Updates: Playlists and albums now feature a full-screen look with background colors matching the album artwork. A new Home Screen widget has been added for ambient music playlists.
• Modified Apple Account View: Apple Music and the App Store now have a streamlined Apple Account view for easy access to settings and subscriptions.

Additional Updates

Other changes included in the iOS 26.4 developer beta include the automatic enabling of Stolen Device Protection, a security feature introduced in 2023, and a new wallpaper gallery. IPadOS 26.4 beta 1 restores the compact tab bar option in Safari, even as macOS Tahoe 26.4 includes a warning regarding the deprecation of Rosetta 2 support for Intel-based Macs.

Notably absent from the beta is the revamped Siri, which was previously rumored to be included in this update. Apple has stated that the upgraded Siri will launch sometime in 2026.