iOS 26.4 - So Much More!

Apple released iOS 26.4 beta 1, introducing new features like RCS encryption status in messages, detailed personal hotspot data usage, and an audio zoom toggle for the camera, while also addressing performance issues found in earlier iOS versions.

• iOS 26.4 beta 1 introduces new features like RCS encryption display, detailed hotspot usage, and camera audio zoom toggle.

• Performance is mixed, with iOS 26.3 offering more stability, while 26.4 beta 1 has new bugs like slow charging and AirPods disconnects.

• Apple is focusing on reliability, with iOS 27 expected to be a significant stability-focused update.

iOS 26.4 beta 1 has been released, bringing a range of new features and stability improvements, though some bugs persist, particularly concerning battery and UI lag on certain devices. Expect new Apple product announcements in early March, including a low-cost MacBook and two new Studio Displays. Overall, Apple appears to be prioritizing reliability and refinement in its software updates, with iOS 27 anticipated as a major stability release.

Upcoming Apple Products

• 00:00:39 Apple is expected to announce multiple new products in early March. Code found in macOS 26.3 indicates the imminent release of a low-cost MacBook, potentially replacing the M1 MacBook, and two new Studio Displays, one standard and one high-end, which might supersede the Pro Display XDR.

New iOS 26.4 Features

• 00:02:05 iOS 26.4 beta 1 introduces several new features, including the display of iMessage and potential RCS encryption status in messages, a detailed data usage view for individual devices connected to a personal hotspot, and an option to disable audio zoom in camera settings. Other additions include new iCloud.com data access settings, an 'Urgent' section in Reminders, UI changes in the App Store, a 'Set Battery Charge Limit' action in Shortcuts, and a hidden build number in settings requiring a tap to view. Notification forwarding for third-party devices is now available in the EU, and the Health app in the US has restored blood oxygen data and added average bedtime tracking in sleep data, while Apple Music now offers concerts nearby, dynamic playlist covers, and multi-playlist song additions.

iOS 26.3 & 26.4 Beta 1 Performance

• 00:11:40 iOS 26.3 generally improved stability, fixing CarPlay for most users, reducing keyboard lag, and enhancing UI smoothness on newer iPhones, though some users still report animation stutter and camera color issues on older devices. In contrast, iOS 26.4 beta 1 shows modem improvements and a fixed app library lag but introduces new bugs such as slow charging, persistent AirPods disconnection, and significant lag on the lock screen and with some widgets for many users. Performance on newer devices running 26.4 seems fast but can experience initial stutter related to adaptive power, and many users report devices running hot, impacting battery life, suggesting ongoing background processing common in early betas.

Future iOS Releases & Recommendations

• 00:09:06 iOS 27 is projected to be a major stability update focusing on code cleanup, refining 'liquid glass,' and improving battery life, with features like an upgraded Siri and health app updates expected around June 2026. For current users, iOS 26.3 is considered a stable update, while iOS 26.4 beta 1, despite new features, is an early beta with noticeable issues like heat and battery drainage, making it advisable to wait for more refined versions before installing. Apple has also stopped signing iOS 26.2.1 and 18.7.4, preventing downgrades to these versions.