Author: sparta

### macOS 26.4 Release Candidate: What to Anticipate

Following the recent launch of beta 4, Apple has now rolled out the macOS 26.4 Release Candidate. This update introduces a variety of new features and enhancements that users can anticipate.

#### Here’s Everything Fresh So Far

One of the most important modifications in macOS 26.4 is the introduction of a notification system for applications that depend on the Rosetta 2 framework to function on Apple Silicon. Users will be alerted that Rosetta 2 will soon be phased out, prompting developers to get ready for this change. Apple has previously announced that macOS 27 will be the final major version to support Rosetta 2.

Moreover, macOS 26.4 resolves the longstanding issue with the window resize pointer, ensuring that the cursor accurately depicts the window’s corner shape. The update also reinstates Safari’s compact tab view, which was eliminated in the previous version.

Another significant addition is the new Charge Limit option, enabling users to establish a limit on their Mac’s battery charge between 80% and 100%. This feature, which has seen popularity in third-party applications, is now available natively.

For creators, macOS 26.4 unveils exclusive features for Creator Studio subscribers within the Freeform app. These features include access to premium images in the Content Hub, the capability to upscale low-resolution images, and compatibility with OpenAI’s image-generating model.

Finally, the update incorporates new emoji choices, such as ballet dancers, distorted faces, and fight clouds.

#### How to Install the Latest Beta

To install the macOS Tahoe 26.4 Release Candidate, follow these instructions:

1. **Backup your Mac**.
2. Open **System Settings**.
3. Go to **General ⇾ Software Update**.
4. Click the ‘i’ icon next to **Beta Updates**.
5. From the dropdown menu in the top-right, select the **macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**.
6. Hit **Done**.

Stay tuned as we continue to investigate the code for more features and improvements in this beta release.

**Spotify Service Disruption: Users Face Account Downgrades and Access Problems**

On Wednesday, Spotify users experienced major difficulties with the streaming platform, starting around 12 p.m. PT. Numerous listeners encountered unanticipated downgrades to their accounts, with some subscribers of the Spotify Family plan being reverted to Spotify Basic. Individual Premium members also faced comparable downgrades, while Basic users found their accounts changed to Free, leading to ads disrupting their listening experience.

Spotify recognized the issues via a social media update, declaring, “We’re aware of some issues right now and are checking them out.” The company further detailed on its website that they had received reports of Basic plan users encountering advertisements and observing their accounts marked as Free on the mobile application, even though their account overview showed they remained Premium subscribers.

The extent of the outage seems to reach beyond just Basic plan users, impacting a wider array of subscribers. While Spotify endeavored to fix these problems, users became frustrated and began to explore other options for their music streaming requirements. For those thinking about making a switch, alternatives such as Apple Music are offered at $10.99 per month, along with possible free trial choices.

As of 1:30 p.m. ET, Spotify reported that the issues had been addressed, enabling users to regain access to their accounts and restore their original subscription statuses.

**Beta Testers: Release Candidate Versions of tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and More Now Available**

The beta testing phase for Apple’s forthcoming software updates, encompassing tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and HomePod 26.4, is approaching its end. Apple has recently made available Release Candidate (RC) versions for these platforms, indicating that the final public release is close at hand.

### What to Expect from the RC Versions

The current beta testing phase has largely concentrated on rectifying bugs and enhancing performance, with only a few new features added in the latest updates. The RC versions are anticipated to maintain this focus, emphasizing internal refinements to ensure that the software is stable and prepared for a wide release.

While beta testers are on the lookout for new features, it is not unusual for certain modifications to remain unnoticed until Apple issues official release notes. These notes may uncover concealed updates or improvements that were not immediately visible during testing.

### Potential for Further Updates

There is a chance that Apple could issue revised RC builds later this week should any new issues arise in the current versions. Nevertheless, unless significant problems surface, the public launches for tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and related platforms are expected within the upcoming week.

### Community Engagement

Beta testers are invited to share their observations regarding any new features or modifications present in the RC versions of watchOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, or tvOS 26.4. Community input can play a crucial role in pinpointing issues or enhancements that may not have been recorded.

### Conclusion

As the release of tvOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4 nears, users can anticipate greater performance and stability. Excitement mounts as the beta testing period comes to a close, setting the stage for the official launch of these updates.