iOS 26.4 is considered one of the most significant iPhone updates in a long time. Its focus is on extensive new features for Siri and Apple Intelligence, which have been anticipated for over a year and a half. A recent report now provides concrete information about when Apple will begin beta testing and what the update will include.
The core Siri features of iOS 26.4 were first unveiled at WWDC 2024. At the time, Apple still expected to release these new features within the iOS 18 cycle. However, an official delay followed. Last year, Apple confirmed that more development time was needed. Additionally, the recent announcement of a partnership with Google garnered attention, as Gemini models are slated for integration into Siri and Apple Intelligence.
With iOS 26.4, Apple now seems ready to make these long-announced features publicly testable for the first time.
Release date of the first beta version of iOS 26.4
In the current edition of his Power-On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple plans to release the first developer beta of iOS 26.4 in the week of February 23.
A public beta version is expected to follow in early March, according to reports. If Apple starts the beta test as planned this month, a final release of iOS 26.4 is likely by the end of March or early April at the latest.
The most important new Siri features in iOS 26.4
iOS 26.4 brings three major new features for Siri that are intended to significantly change how you interact with your iPhone.
- Personal context: With personal context, Siri can recognize and use information from notes, text messages, and emails. This makes it possible to find content again or establish connections without having to explain details again.
- In-app and cross-app actions: This feature allows you to control certain app functions directly via Siri. Siri is not limited to individual apps, but can also perform cross-app actions and combine processes.
- Screen Awareness: Screen Awareness enables Siri to recognize and respond to content on the display. Actions can be performed directly based on what is currently displayed on the screen.
Other new features: New emojis
In addition to extensive Siri improvements, iOS 26.4 is expected to include new emojis. Among those mentioned are an apple core, a battle cloud, and a treasure chest. These additions follow Apple's usual emoji update cycle.
Current status and possible changes
As is typical with preliminary information about iOS versions, the schedule is subject to change. Should unexpected problems arise during development, individual features or the release date of iOS 26.4 could be delayed. However, current information suggests that Apple is firmly planning to start the beta phase at the end of February.
iOS 26.4 as a milestone for Siri and Apple Intelligence
iOS 26.4 marks a significant step for Siri and Apple Intelligence. After months of delays, a concrete timeframe for the beta launch has finally been established. With new features like personal context, screen awareness, and cross-app actions, Apple is clearly positioning this update as more than just a typical interim release. If the current schedule holds true, iOS 26.4 should be available to all users by the end of March. (Image: Mojahid_Mottakin / DepositPhotos.com)
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