Apple Releases First Betas of iOS 26.4, macOS Tahoe, and Other Operating System Updates

Apple has released the first developer betas for its upcoming operating system updates, including iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, macOS Tahoe 26.4, watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and HomePod 26.4 [9to5Mac]. These releases signal the beginning of the testing phase for features expected to launch this spring.

What’s New in iOS 26.4 Beta 1

The iOS 26.4 beta introduces several new features for iPhone users, including a video podcasts feature within the Apple Podcasts app [MacRumors]. This feature utilizes HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) to provide podcast creators with enhanced control and monetization options, although delivering a high-quality viewing experience. Users can seamlessly switch between watching and listening to podcasts, with the option to download videos for offline viewing.

Other additions to iOS 26.4 include updates to Stolen Device Protection and end-to-end encryption for RCS messages [MacRumors]. Apple Music also receives a new “Playlist Playground” feature, allowing users to generate playlists based on text prompts. The app provides pre-set suggestions, but users can also input custom ideas, moods, or feelings to receive automatic song recommendations [MacRumors]. Apple Music features a redesigned album and playlist interface with full-page artwork and a “Concerts Near You” feature to facilitate users discover live shows.

macOS Tahoe 26.4 and Other Updates

Alongside iOS 26.4, Apple has released the first beta of macOS Tahoe 26.4 [AppleInsider]. The betas for watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4 are also available to developers. These updates are expected to include optimizations and preparations for potential new Apple product announcements [9to5Mac].

Xcode 26.4 Beta

To support development and testing on these new betas, Apple has also released Xcode 26.4 beta [Apple Developer]. This version of Xcode supports on-device debugging for iOS 15 and later, tvOS 15 and later, watchOS 8 and later, and visionOS. It requires a Mac running macOS Tahoe 26.2 or later [Apple Developer].

Availability

Currently, these beta releases are limited to developers. A public beta program is expected to launch in the coming weeks, allowing a wider range of users to test the new features [9to5Mac]. The final releases of iOS 26.4, macOS Tahoe 26.4, and other updates are anticipated this spring.