With the launch of iOS 26 beta 4, Apple persists in implementing significant modifications to its upcoming software upgrade. As we approach the release of the first iOS 26 public beta, the company aims to ensure that users enjoy the experience it has planned for the most crucial iOS update since iOS 7.
That said, there are several key alterations in iOS 26 beta 4, alongside the usual bug fixes, general stability enhancements, and battery optimizations. Following multiple bugs in iOS 18 and the prolonged rollout of Apple Intelligence features during the last update cycle, it’s natural for the company to strive for iOS 26 to be as refined and comprehensive as possible.
With an official launch still anticipated later this autumn, here are the crucial updates Apple has introduced in iOS 26 developer beta 4, and what iPhone users can expect when they experience the public beta upon its eventual release.
Liquid Glass enhancements: Apple has continued its exploration of Liquid Glass in the latest beta. Now, the menu bars in the company’s default apps exhibit increased transparency. To enhance readability, the Lock Screen becomes darker whenever a notification is received. It remains uncertain if this will be Apple’s final major adjustment to the aesthetic of Liquid Glass.
Notification Summaries: Apple is reinstating the contentious Notification Summaries feature. Still in beta, the company eliminated it in January due to inaccuracies in summarizing headlines. Now, if you opt to summarize news, Apple cautions that the feature “may alter the meaning of the original headlines” and advises users to verify the information.
Call Screening: The Screen Unknown Callers feature now provides additional options, including the ability to deactivate it, inquire unknown callers about their reason for calling, mute unknown numbers, or redirect unknown callers to voicemail.
Dynamic wallpapers: The new wallpapers in iOS 26 are now dynamic and shift colors throughout the day, enhancing their vibrancy.
Overall adjustments: iOS 26 beta 4 also brings a variety of other modifications to the software, including updated Camera and Mail app icons, a new action for sliding back and forth in the Camera app, and several changes in the Settings app.
BGR will continue to report on the latest features of iOS 26 as we uncover more details.
