iOS 26.4 Beta 1: All New Features Explained (2026)

iOS 26.4 Beta 1 Brings a Wealth of New Features and Improvements

Apple has released the first beta of iOS 26.4, packed with exciting new features and enhancements for iPhone users. Here's a breakdown of the key additions and changes:

Playlist Playground: Apple Music introduces a creative new feature called Playlist Playground. Users can now create playlists based on text-based prompts, like "morning coffee music" or "hip-hop party anthems." The feature generates a list of 25 songs, customizes the playlist, and even lets you choose a cover and description.
Concerts Near You: Apple Music also gets a "Concerts Near You" feature, making it easier to find live shows and tour dates for your favorite artists.
Video Podcasts: Apple Podcasts finally gets video capabilities! The update uses HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) for smooth playback, allowing users to watch podcast episodes offline. This opens up new monetization opportunities for creators.

Security Enhancements

Stolen Device Protection: This feature is now enabled by default for all iPhone users. It requires additional authentication through Face ID or Touch ID to access sensitive features like the Passwords app and Lost mode in Find My.
End-to-End RCS Encryption: Apple is testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, bringing security to cross-platform messaging. This means messages between iPhone and Android users will be as secure as iMessages.

App Improvements and New Features

Messages App: The Messages app gets new animations for a smoother user experience when starting a new conversation.
Apple Account Hub: The App Store, Apple Music, and other apps now have a unified Apple Account hub, making it easier to manage your account settings.
Freeform Creator Studio: This new feature allows Creator Studio subscribers to access exclusive Freeform content and AI image creation tools.
Reminders App: The Reminders app introduces an "Urgent" section, ensuring you never miss important tasks with an accompanying alarm.
iCloud Web Settings: The iCloud settings now include a "Allow Search" toggle for trusted Apple devices.

Other Notable Changes

Wallpaper and Watch Face Gallery: The Wallpaper Gallery and Watch Face Gallery get a refreshed design, making it easier to download and customize your iPhone and Apple Watch backgrounds.
New Emoji: While no new emojis are included in this beta, code hints at future additions, including characters like the trombone, distorted face, and ballet dancers.
Notification Forwarding (EU): This feature, tested in the previous beta, allows notifications to be forwarded to third-party wearables like Android smartwatches (EU only).
Proximity Pairing (EU): Another EU-specific feature, Proximity Pairing allows for seamless pairing with third-party accessories using a one-tap method.

iOS 26.4 is shaping up to be a significant update, offering a blend of convenience, security, and exciting new features. Stay tuned for the public beta release and the final launch this spring!