With iOS 26.4, the next major update for the iPhone is on its way. While iOS 26.3 brought only a few new features, iOS 26.4 delivers significantly more functionality for key apps like Apple Music, Podcasts, CarPlay, Health, Freeform, and Reminders. Currently, iOS 26.4 is still in beta. Nevertheless, based on the release strategy of recent years, it's possible to estimate relatively accurately when the final version can be expected.
Apple has followed a clearly recognizable schedule for its so-called x.4 versions for years. These updates are usually released in March and typically include major feature sets. iOS 26.4 also fits this pattern.
Both the previous release dates and the start of the beta phase provide concrete indications of the likely release window. At the same time, it is already clear that iOS 26.4 is significantly more feature-rich than its predecessor.
When will iOS 26.4 be released?
The public release of iOS 26.4 is expected to take place at the end of March.
A look at the x.4 updates of recent years reveals a clear pattern:
- iOS 18.4: Monday, March 31
- iOS 17.4: Tuesday, March 5
- iOS 16.4: Monday, March 27
- iOS 15.4: Monday, March 14
Apple has consistently released iOS x.4 versions in March over the past few years. It is therefore very likely that iOS 26.4 will also be released in March.
Analysis of the beta releases
To further narrow down the release window, it's worth taking a look at the start of the respective beta phases:
- The first betas of iOS 18.4 and iOS 16.4 were released in mid- to late February. Both updates were later released at the end of March.
- The first betas of iOS 17.4 and iOS 15.4 were released at the end of January. These versions were subsequently released at the beginning of March.
The first beta of iOS 26.4 was released on February 16th. Apple is thus following the same release pattern as with iOS 18.4 and iOS 16.4, both of which were released at the end of March.
This suggests a clear trend: iOS 26.4 is also likely to be released to all users at the end of March.
However, two beta versions have already been released. Should Apple complete the testing cycle faster than usual, a mid-March release would also be possible. In any case, the public version is expected to be just a few weeks away.
New features in iOS 26.4
Unlike iOS 26.3, which only brought a few new features, iOS 26.4 is a significantly more comprehensive update. Several key apps receive noticeable enhancements and improvements.
Apple Music: Five new features
Apple Music is getting five new features in iOS 26.4:
- The AI Playlist Playground tool for AI-powered playlist creation.
- A new design for albums
- A new design for playlists
- Integrated concert information
- Further minor improvements within the app
The focus is clearly on personalization, clarity, and a more modern presentation.
Apple Podcasts: Redesigned video experience
Apple Podcasts is getting an improved and modernized video experience. The presentation of video content has been redesigned, and the user interface is clearer and more contemporary.
CarPlay: Support for AI chatbots and video
CarPlay's functionality is enhanced with iOS 26.4:
- Support for AI chatbot apps
- Option to play videos
This significantly expands the range of functions offered by CarPlay beyond its previous core functions.
Health app: New data on sleep and vital signs
The Health app is being expanded to include new data areas:
- Additional sleep data
- Further information on vital signs
This makes the health analysis more comprehensive and detailed.
Freeform: Features from Apple Creator Studio
Freeform receives exclusive features from Apple Creator Studio, enhancing the app, especially for creative and collaborative projects.
Reminders: New smart list "Urgent"
The Reminders app is introducing a new smart list called "Urgent". High-priority tasks will be automatically grouped together, making it easier to identify important to-dos.
Revised wallpaper gallery
The wallpaper gallery has also been redesigned. Selecting and managing wallpapers now takes place in a revised, more user-friendly interface.
RCS with end-to-end encryption in beta
The beta version of iOS 26.4 also allows users to test end-to-end encryption for RCS. However, Apple points out that this feature will only be officially available to all users with a future iOS update.
- iOS 26.4 Beta 2: All features and adjustments
- iOS 26.4: All new features of Beta 1
- iOS 26.4: These changes are barely noticeable
iOS 26.4 brings a major feature update in March
iOS 26.4 is a major feature update expected to be released at the end of March. The launch of the first beta on February 16th, as well as the established release pattern of recent years, strongly support this timeframe.
With numerous new features for Apple Music, Podcasts, CarPlay, Health, Freeform, and Reminders, iOS 26.4 is significantly larger than iOS 26.3. The already released beta versions suggest that the final version is only a few weeks away. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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