New Delhi: Apple has officially introduced its latest first developer beta of iOS 26.4 for the eligible iPhones. According to some reports, it has suggested that the latest developer beta unveils several new features and design tweaks, including video podcast support in the Apple Podcasts, text-based playlist creation in Apple Music, with also end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, and the latest changes to Stolen Device Protection. This latest update also brings interface refinements, a new Ambient Music widget, and updates to applications like Reminders, Freeform, and the App Store.
iOS 26.4 developer beta unveils the latest Apple Music feature that enables users to generate playlists using text prompts. With the Apple Music application, users can type an idea, mood, or theme and receive automatic song suggestions for the curated playlists. Playlist Playground this latest feature can generate a 25-song playlist with a custom title. The Playlists can be further customized with additional prompts, a cover image, and a description.
Apple has also reported bringing video podcasts to support the Apple Podcasts application. This latest feature leverages HTTP Live Streaming, giving the creators what Apple describes as unprecedented control and monetization opportunities while delivering a high-quality viewing experience for the users. Stolen Device Protection is now turned on by default for all iPhone users, instead of being an optional setting. This feature adds an extra layer of security by requiring Face ID or Touch ID authentication to access sensitive functions such as the Passwords application, enabling Lost Mode in Find My, making purchases in Safari, and much more.
Apple is also bringing the latest unified Apple Account Hub across the App Store, Apple Music, and other applications with user settings, replacing the previous profile section. While it retains much of the same functionality, it features a refreshed, consistent design. In App Store, application and purchase history are now combined, and there is a dedicated section for application updates.
Eligible iPhones iOS 26.4 developer beta 1:
- iPhone 17 series
- iPhone 16 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
