Apple has released the second beta of iOS 26.4, offering a more refined experience for developers and a glimpse of what iPhone users can expect in the coming months. While the initial iOS 26.4 beta didn’t deliver the anticipated Google Gemini-powered Siri features, it introduced over 40 changes, and this second beta builds upon that foundation with a series of updates and under-the-hood improvements.
What’s New in iOS 26.4 Beta 2?
The latest beta introduces a new splash screen for the Podcast app, specifically designed to highlight the new video podcast feature. This feature promises a seamless transition between video and audio content, alongside the convenience of offline video playback. The Games app also receives a UI tweak, mirroring a change seen in the App Store in the first beta – the search bar has been relocated to the top of the interface.
For users who prefer dark mode, the Control Center context menus now feature a darker tint, replacing the previously bright white interface. This subtle change aims to improve visual comfort and consistency within the operating system.
A new shortcut has been added to the Music app’s profile page, allowing users to quickly navigate to the Settings app to customize Music app controls. This streamlines the process of adjusting playback and other settings.
Apple has also introduced a new “Reduce Highlighting Effects” toggle within the Accessibility settings (Display & Text Size). While the exact impact of this setting remains somewhat unclear, it’s speculated to reduce the visual effects around buttons and sliders, potentially offering a more subdued interface. Further testing is needed to fully understand its functionality.
Enhanced RCS Encryption
One of the most significant updates in iOS 26.4 beta 2 is the expansion of testing for end-to-end encrypted RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging. The initial beta added support for testing RCS encryption between iPhone-to-iPhone communications. This second beta extends that testing to include messaging between iPhones and Android devices. Apple notes that this feature is still in beta and not yet available to all users or carriers, and will be rolled out in future iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS 26 releases. When enabled, encrypted conversations will be indicated by a lock icon.
Under-the-Hood Improvements and Future Features
Beyond the user-facing changes, iOS 26.4 beta 2 includes several under-the-hood improvements. Apple is working on a redesign of the permission prompts, moving towards a sheet-style view. This change aims to provide a more modern and user-friendly experience when granting or denying app permissions.
Developers will also find a new NSPredicateValidating protocol within the SDK. This protocol is likely designed to validate predicates before they are evaluated, potentially mitigating security vulnerabilities that have previously affected this API. This proactive approach to security is a welcome addition.
Hints of a Studio Display Refresh
The beta also provides further clues about an upcoming refresh of the Studio Display. Evidence suggests Apple is working on two new display models, with the primary difference between them appearing to be the audio amplifier module. One model features a larger module, hinting at larger, more powerful speakers and potentially a larger display size. This suggests Apple may be planning to offer both a 27-inch and a 32-inch Studio Display, or similar configurations. Both new models are expected to include touch functionality, potentially through a touchscreen or capacitive touch buttons, and support for the Secure Indicator Light for camera/mic usage.
These updates, while incremental, demonstrate Apple’s continued commitment to refining the iOS experience. The focus on security, accessibility, and user interface improvements, coupled with the potential for a new Studio Display, suggests a steady stream of enhancements for Apple users in the coming months.
