Apple has released the first beta of iOS 26.4, arriving just a week after the launch of iOS 26.3. While rumors suggested the update would bring Gemini-powered Siri to iPhones, the current beta focuses instead on enhancements to Apple Music, Podcasts, and testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging. The update is initially available to developers, with a public release expected in the coming weeks. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:
AI-Powered Playlists in Apple Music
The most notable addition is “Playlist Playground,” a new feature that lets users generate playlists using simple text prompts. For example, typing “evening wind down songs” or “90s grunge hits” will create a 25-song playlist curated by AI.
Users can refine these playlists further with additional prompts, manually reorder tracks, and add custom cover art and descriptions. This offers a new way to discover music based on mood or theme, streamlining the playlist creation process.
Enhanced Video Podcasts
Apple Podcasts received updates to improve video playback. Switching between audio and video is now smoother, with the system automatically adjusting quality based on network conditions. Users can also toggle between horizontal and vertical views and download video podcasts for offline viewing.
The update also introduces dynamic video ad insertion for podcast creators, enabling them to participate in the broader video advertising market while maintaining creative control. This move signals Apple’s commitment to expanding its podcast ecosystem beyond audio.
RCS Encryption Testing
iOS 26.4 beta includes testing for end-to-end RCS encryption in Messages. Currently, this feature only works between Apple devices, but it points toward a future where texting with Android users could become more secure.
However, it’s important to note that RCS encryption won’t be available in the final iOS 26.4 release; Apple plans to add it in a subsequent update. This phased rollout suggests Apple is carefully managing the transition to RCS to ensure a smooth user experience.
Overall, iOS 26.4 beta delivers incremental improvements, with the AI-powered playlists and video podcast enhancements being the most significant changes. While the absence of Gemini-powered Siri may disappoint some, these updates refine existing features and lay the groundwork for future advancements in music streaming, podcasting, and secure messaging.
