Quick Brief
- Apple released iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 to developers on February 16, 2026
- Update brings RCS end-to-end encryption for Android messaging and enhanced video podcasts with HTTP Live Streaming
- New emoji include trombone, treasure chest, orca, landslide, and hairy creature characters
- Expected public release scheduled for late March or early April 2026, with public beta launching within two weeks
Apple release iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 to registered developers on February 16, 2026, less than one week after releasing iOS 26.3. This update marks a significant shift in cross-platform messaging security while introducing entertainment enhancements that expand the Apple ecosystem’s capabilities.
Registered developers can access the beta through Settings > General > Software Update on compatible iPhone and iPad devices running the developer profile.
Enhanced Cross-Platform Messaging Security
iOS 26.4 beta introduces RCS (Rich Communication Services) end-to-end encryption for conversations with Android users. This advancement addresses a longstanding security gap in iPhone-to-Android communication. Messages sent to Android devices now receive the same encryption protection that iMessage users have enjoyed for years.
The implementation uses industry-standard encryption protocols that protect message content, attachments, and metadata during transmission. Android users must have RCS-enabled devices running compatible messaging apps to benefit from encrypted conversations.
Video Podcast Experience Gets Major Upgrade
Apple has revamped video podcast playback with HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology integration. This enhancement delivers adaptive bitrate streaming that adjusts video quality based on network conditions. Content creators can now publish higher-resolution podcast videos without compromising playback performance for users on slower connections.
The new system supports chapters, markers, and improved scrubbing controls. Podcasters gain access to better analytics showing how viewers engage with video content throughout episodes.
Siri Improvements Face Unexpected Delay
What happened to the AI-powered Siri upgrade in iOS 26.4?
The anticipated AI-powered Siri featuring Google Gemini model integration has been delayed from iOS 26.4 to version 26.5 or potentially iOS 27. Apple encountered technical issues that pushed the comprehensive Siri overhaul to later releases. The company originally showcased these improvements at WWDC 2024, but implementation challenges have extended the development timeline.
Apple’s new Siri will use Google Gemini models behind the scenes to power advanced features. The full infrastructure upgrade with in-app and cross-app actions remains under development for future updates.
New Emoji Characters Expand Expression Options
iOS 26.4 beta adds nine diverse emoji characters to the standard keyboard. The new additions include:
- Musical instruments: Trombone
- Fantasy and nature: Hairy Creature (Bigfoot/Sasquatch), Orca, Treasure Chest, Landslide
- Expressions and actions: Distorted Face, Ballet Dancers, Fight Cloud
- Food items: Apple Core
These characters follow Unicode Consortium’s latest emoji standard and display consistently across Apple devices. Android and other platforms will render identical emoji once they adopt the same Unicode version.
Credit Card Autofill in Third-Party Apps
The update extends credit card autofill support to third-party applications through the Passwords app. Users can now autofill payment information in apps that previously required manual entry of card details.
This feature enhances checkout experiences across shopping and service apps while maintaining secure storage through Apple’s Keychain system. The autofill functionality works seamlessly with Face ID and Touch ID authentication.
Release Timeline and Device Compatibility
When will iOS 26.4 be available to all users?
Apple plans to release iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 to the public in late March or early April 2026. Public beta testers can expect access within one to two weeks following the developer beta launch on February 16, 2026. The company typically follows a four-to-six-week testing cycle before general availability.
Beta releases progress through multiple iterations Apple will likely release four to six beta versions before the release candidate becomes available to developers in late March 2026. Each beta addresses bugs and stability issues discovered by the testing community.
Developer Testing Access
Developers enrolled in Apple’s Developer Program can download iOS 26.4 beta 1 through the Software Update section in device Settings. The beta requires devices running iOS 26.3 or later as the base operating system.
Apple recommends installing beta software on secondary devices rather than primary phones or tablets. Beta versions contain known issues that may affect daily usage, app compatibility, and battery performance during the testing phase.
What This Update Signals for iOS 27
iOS 26.4 serves as a transitional release bridging current capabilities and the major AI overhaul planned for iOS 27. The delayed Siri improvements suggest Apple is prioritizing stability and comprehensive testing over rushed feature deployment.
The RCS encryption implementation demonstrates Apple’s commitment to cross-platform security standards while maintaining the iMessage ecosystem. This approach positions the company to meet regulatory requirements in multiple markets without fragmenting the messaging experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does iOS 26.4 include the new AI Siri?
No, iOS 26.4 does not include the comprehensive AI-powered Siri upgrade. Apple delayed the Gemini-based Siri improvements to iOS 26.5 or iOS 27 due to technical challenges. The company is prioritizing stability over rushed deployment.
How do I install iOS 26.4 beta?
Registered developers can install iOS 26.4 beta by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update on compatible devices. The beta requires an active Apple Developer Program membership. Public beta access becomes available one to two weeks after developer release.
What new emoji are in iOS 26.4?
iOS 26.4 beta adds nine emoji: Trombone, Treasure Chest, Orca, Landslide, Hairy Creature (Bigfoot), Apple Core, Ballet Dancers, Distorted Face, and Fight Cloud. These characters follow the latest Unicode standard.
When will iOS 26.4 be publicly released?
Apple plans to release iOS 26.4 to all users in late March or early April 2026. The public beta should launch within two weeks of the February 16, 2026 developer release.
Does iOS 26.4 improve messaging with Android phones?
Yes, iOS 26.4 introduces RCS end-to-end encryption for messages sent to Android devices. This feature provides security protections for cross-platform conversations. Both users need RCS-compatible devices and messaging apps.
What is the main focus of iOS 26.4?
iOS 26.4 focuses on cross-platform messaging security through RCS encryption and enhanced media experiences with upgraded video podcast streaming. The update refines existing features rather than introducing revolutionary changes.
Can I autofill credit cards in third-party apps now?
Yes, iOS 26.4 enables credit card autofill in third-party apps through the Passwords app. This feature simplifies checkout processes while maintaining secure storage through Apple’s Keychain system.
