# What’s New in iOS 26.4 Beta 2?
The second beta version of iOS 26.4 has unveiled various significant modifications and features, expanding on what the initial beta provided. Although it lacks the highly awaited Google Gemini-enhanced Siri functionalities, it still offers users a preview of upcoming improvements and adjustments.
## New Features and Updates
### Podcast Splash Screen
One of the major newcomers in this beta is a revamped splash screen for the Podcast app. This feature showcases the newly added video podcast functionality, enabling users to effortlessly toggle between video and audio formats, along with offline video playback.
### Games App Search Bar
The search feature in the Games app has been refreshed, with the search bar now located at the upper part of the interface. This adjustment reflects a similar enhancement made to the App Store during the first beta launch, improving user navigation.
### Dark Mode Enhancements
For those who favor dark mode, the Control Center context menus have undergone a visual update, now presenting a dark tint instead of the earlier bright white layout. This modification aligns with the overall dark mode aesthetic and enhances visibility.
### Music App Shortcut
A new shortcut has been integrated into the Music app’s profile page, enabling users to swiftly access Settings → Apps → Music. This simplifies the process of customizing controls related to the Music app.
### Accessibility Features
Within the Accessibility settings, a new option named “Reduce Highlighting Effects” has been added under Display & Text Size. While the precise effect of this feature on the user interface is not entirely clear, it is believed to adjust the spectral highlights of the display.
### Encrypted RCS Messaging
The beta additionally introduces the ability to send and receive encrypted RCS messages. While this feature first emerged in beta 1, beta 2 gives users the opportunity to actively test it with compatible carriers.
## Under-the-Hood Changes
### Redesign of Permissions Prompts
A major behind-the-scenes modification entails a planned overhaul of iOS permission prompts. The updated design will adopt a sheet view, moving away from the conventional pop-up style, which is expected to improve user experience.
### NSPredicateValidating Protocol
The SDK has introduced a new `NSPredicateValidating` protocol. This protocol appears to focus on validating predicates before evaluation, potentially lowering the risk of malware exploits that have impacted this API in the past.
### Studio Display Refresh
Rumors of an upcoming refresh of the Studio Display have emerged, suggesting that Apple is developing two new models. These displays are anticipated to feature enhanced audio capabilities and possibly touch functionality, either through touchscreens or capacitive buttons.
## Conclusion
While iOS 26.4 beta 2 may not present major user-facing features, it offers numerous notable updates and improvements that indicate future refinements within the iOS environment. Users are encouraged to explore these modifications and provide feedback on the developments of the beta.