iOS 26.4 beta introduces video podcast playback, end‑to‑end encryption for RCS chats, and a new Playlist Playground inside Apple Music, plus refinements to Stolen Device Protection, Messages, and performance reporting. These features let you watch shows, secure messages, and generate playlists instantly, giving a glimpse of what the upcoming public release will offer.
Video Podcasts Arrive in Apple Podcasts
The Podcasts app now supports video episodes side‑by‑side with audio tracks. A toggle button lets you switch from video to audio without leaving the app, so you can keep listening when you’re on the move. This integration makes video‑first shows feel native on iPhone, eliminating the need for a separate browser tab.
End‑to‑End Encryption for RCS Messages
Rich Communication Services (RCS) gains an optional encryption layer, turning it into a more private messaging alternative. Users must opt‑in, and carriers will need to support the feature before it becomes universal. When enabled, your chats are shielded from eavesdropping, matching the security level you expect from iMessage.
Key Benefits of Encrypted RCS
- Privacy: Conversations are protected with end‑to‑end encryption.
- Compatibility: Works with existing RCS infrastructure on Android devices.
- Control: You can toggle encryption per conversation.
Playlist Playground Transforms Music Curation
Apple Music now includes a built‑in AI‑driven tool called Playlist Playground. You simply enter a mood, activity, or a handful of seed tracks, and the engine creates a ready‑to‑play playlist in seconds. It’s a handy shortcut for anyone who prefers instant, personalized mixes over manual scrolling.
How to Use Playlist Playground
- Choose a mood or activity (e.g., “workout” or “chill”).
- Add up to three seed songs you like.
- Tap “Generate” and let the AI craft a custom list.
Smarter Stolen Device Protection
The beta refines the Stolen Device Protection framework with a clearer status indicator in Settings and a remote‑wipe shortcut that works even when the device is offline. These upgrades give you more confidence that a lost iPhone can be locked down before it falls into the wrong hands.
Messages UI Polish and Performance Dashboard
Messages receives a subtle UI refresh, including a new “pin” option for important threads and a more responsive reaction bar. Developers also get a performance dashboard that logs CPU spikes, memory usage, and battery impact per app, helping you spot inefficiencies early.
Why Developers Should Test the Beta Now
Apple releases beta builds weeks before the public version, giving developers a chance to verify compatibility and report bugs. Testing iOS 26.4 early lets you ensure your app works with encrypted RCS, the new Podcast video player, and the Playlist Playground API, smoothing the transition for your users when the final release lands.
Ready to Explore iOS 26.4?
If you’re curious about video podcasts, tighter messaging privacy, or AI‑generated playlists, installing the beta today lets you experience these features firsthand. Whether you wait for the final release or dive in now, the updates signal Apple’s push toward richer media, stronger security, and developer‑friendly tools.
