macOS 26.4: These are the most important new features

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macOS 26.4 is about to be released and brings several new features to the Mac. With this update, Apple has focused on areas that are frequently used in everyday life. These include Safari, Freeform, Reminders, and Family Sharing. The update is complemented by smaller but practical improvements such as new emojis and optimized subtitle settings.

With the release candidate, macOS 26.4 is nearly complete. This version is made available to both developers and public beta testers and generally corresponds to the final version. This allows for a complete overview of all changes even now. The release notes show that, in addition to functional enhancements, Apple is also focusing on improved clarity and flexibility.

New emojis in macOS 26.4

macOS 26.4 expands the emoji keyboard with a total of eight new emojis. These include an orca, a trombone, a landslide, a ballerina, and a distorted face. These additions are based on recent Unicode extensions and are available system-wide.

Compact tab bar in Safari

Safari receives a new option called "Compact Tab Bar" with macOS 26.4. This provides more space for website content while maintaining efficiency, as search queries can be launched directly from the active tab. The feature is especially useful for users who have many tabs open simultaneously.

Extensions for Freeform and integration with Apple Creator Studio

The Freeform app is significantly enhanced with macOS 26.4. New image creation and editing tools expand the creative possibilities within the app. Additionally, a library of premium content is introduced, offering further templates and resources.

A key aspect is the integration of Freeform into Apple Creator Studio. This integrates the app more closely into creative workflows and increases its importance for content creation and visual planning.

Improvements to the Reminders app

The Reminders app receives a new task prioritization feature in macOS 26.4. Reminders can be marked as "urgent" using a keyboard shortcut.

Additionally, Smart Lists can be filtered to show only urgent reminders. This combination makes it easier to organize tasks and provides a clearer structure to everyday life.

More flexibility with Family Sharing

With the "Share Buy" feature, Apple expands the possibilities within Family Sharing. Adult members of a family group can use their own payment method when making a purchase.

Previously, this often required the family organizer. The new solution reduces this dependency and offers more individual control over shared accounts.

Improved settings for subtitles and image captions

macOS 26.4 simplifies access to settings for subtitles and image captions. These options are now easier to find, especially when playing media content.

Also new is a real-time preview, accessible directly via the caption icon. Changes to the settings can thus be checked immediately without having to open additional menus.

macOS release date: April 26th

With the release of the release candidate, the launch of macOS 26.4 is imminent. The update is expected to roll out to all users next week.

macOS 26.4: Small changes with a big impact

macOS 26.4 brings several targeted improvements, primarily affecting everyday Mac use. The new features are functional and practical, without fundamentally changing the system. Safari, Freeform, and the Reminders app, in particular, benefit from the adjustments. Supplemented by greater flexibility in Family Sharing and improved subtitle accessibility, this update offers small but significant advancements in many areas. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Dontree_M)