Apple has released the fourth beta version of iOS 26. iPadOS 26, macOS 26 ("Tahoe"), watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 have also been updated. The new builds are now available to registered developers through the Apple Developer Program. Those who already have a corresponding beta profile installed can initiate the update as usual via Software Update on their device.
The release of Beta 4 follows approximately two weeks after the last update, continuing Apple's usual summer beta cycle. With each new beta release, minor bugs are fixed, system stability improved, and specific optimizations are made. iOS 26 is expected to be available in its final form by fall – presumably alongside the new iPhone.
No visible changes documented yet
At this time, Apple has not published any official release notes with specific changes for the fourth beta. The developer community has also not yet discovered any visible new features or functional enhancements. This suggests that Beta 4 is primarily focused on technical fine-tuning. Experience has shown that individual changes may nevertheless become known in the next few hours or days – for example, through targeted testing.
All new features from Beta 3 remain unchanged
In terms of content, iOS 26 Beta 4 continues to build on the changes made in the third test version. These included reduced transparency effects in system apps like Apple Music and the App Store, new color variants for the iOS default background, revised colors in the Control Center, and design adjustments in Safari. New features such as the Live Radio widget in Apple Music, optimized notifications in Low Power Mode, and accessibility improvements are also still under development.
macOS, iPadOS and Co. also updated
In addition to iOS 26, Apple has also released new beta versions of iPadOS 26, macOS 26 ("Tahoe"), watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. As with iOS, no new features have been announced yet. The updates are also likely to focus on bug fixes and stability improvements.
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iOS 26: Next steps in the beta phase
The current test version is available exclusively to registered developers. An updated public beta—technically identical to the developer beta—is expected to follow soon. The final version of iOS 26 and the other systems is expected in the fall. Until then, Apple plans to release additional beta versions to identify any remaining issues and make final adjustments. As soon as new features or noticeable changes in Beta 4 become known, we will report on them separately. Until then, this will remain a system-internal fine-tuning that confirms the direction for the upcoming iOS 26 without setting any new priorities. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / miss.cabul)
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