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Apple Releases Third 26.4 Developer Betas Across iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS

Apple is pressing ahead with the rapid 26.4 cycle, with Mac beta timing still unsettled.

Overview

  • Developers received fresh builds that continue testing Apple Music’s Playlist Playground, native video episodes in Podcasts using HLS, end‑to‑end encrypted RCS messaging, and Stolen Device Protection enabled by default.
  • visionOS 26.4 adds foveated streaming support so apps and games can deliver higher detail where the user is looking while compressing peripheral areas.
  • tvOS 26.4 removes the legacy iTunes Movies and iTunes TV Shows apps in favor of the Apple TV app and introduces a Continuous Audio Connection option for HDMI output.
  • Early tester notes for beta 3 cite fixes and polish, including improved Spotlight search reliability, snappier App Store and Arcade navigation, restored RCS encryption behavior in some cases, and updated modem firmware on recent iPhones.
  • Public betas are anticipated soon, and Apple has also signaled incoming iOS, iPadOS, and macOS 26.3.1 maintenance releases for bug fixes and compatibility.