With the first beta of iOS 26.4, Apple is introducing a redesigned version of the wallpaper gallery. The update doesn't bring a radical overhaul of the system, but rather focuses on structural adjustments and performance optimizations. The centerpiece is a new gallery interface that is more clearly structured and designed to be faster. The changes affect both the organization of categories and the way collections are loaded, displayed, and managed.
With iOS 26, Apple already unified the design and system performance more significantly. iOS 26.4 continues this approach. Instead of emphasizing new features, it fundamentally modernizes an existing area.
The wallpaper gallery is a key element for personalizing the iPhone. With this update, it not only receives a visual redesign but also technical optimizations. The goal is better integration into the overall iOS 26 system and noticeably smoother operation.
New structure of the wallpaper gallery in iOS 26.4
With iOS 26.4, the wallpaper gallery was completely redesigned. The system is now more clearly structured and optimized for better performance.
Categories at the top
The upper section of the gallery now features clearly arranged categories. These include, among other things, special photo sections such as:
- Recommended
- Photo shuffle
- Spatial scenes
These areas are directly visible and facilitate access to certain types of background images.
In addition, familiar categories have been integrated, which can now be flexibly added or removed. This allows the gallery to be more tailored to individual preferences.
Expanded collections with description and loading function
The new wallpaper gallery lists various themed sections. These include, for example:
- Weather
- Astronomy
- Emoji
- other categories
Next to each category is now a short description explaining the content of the respective collection.
To see specific examples within a collection, use the "Load" button. Only after tapping it are the corresponding options actually added to the gallery and loaded.
Once the content is available, the entire collection can be searched. If a collection is no longer needed, it can be removed from the gallery using the "checkmark" button. Managing content is therefore significantly more flexible than before.
Pre-installed Collections in iOS 26.4
In addition to freely manageable photo collections, the new wallpaper gallery also includes pre-installed collections. These include:
- the official iOS 26 wallpapers
- iPhone-specific wallpapers
These collections are permanently integrated and cannot be configured or removed. They remain a permanent part of the gallery.
Performance and system integration
Aside from the redesigned interface, iOS 26.4 also brings technical improvements. The new system runs more smoothly and responsively than before. Loading processes are faster, animations appear more stable, and navigating the gallery feels more direct.
The redesigned wallpaper gallery thus fits better with the design language of iOS 26. Structure, operation and performance appear more uniform and modern.
iOS 26.4 brings more control over wallpapers
With iOS 26.4, the wallpaper gallery receives a comprehensive overhaul. The new structure with clear categories at the top, the photo sections "Recommended", "Photo Shuffle", and "Spatial Scenes" as well as the ability to add collections via "Load" or remove them with a "Checkmark", provide greater clarity and flexibility.
The system is complemented by permanently integrated iOS 26 and iPhone-specific wallpapers that remain available. At the same time, the gallery has been technically optimized, resulting in smoother and more responsive operation.
iOS 26.4 focuses on detailed improvements that measurably change the everyday user experience without redefining the fundamental concept of personalization. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apfelpatient)
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