Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

Apple is presently beta testing iOS 26.4 as its forthcoming significant iPhone update, but it seems that a smaller software release, iOS 26.3.1, is poised to be launched first. Information from visitor logs at 9to5Mac suggests that iOS 26.3.1 is under active development at Apple, succeeding the earlier release of iOS 26.3, which emphasized bug fixes and security enhancements while unveiling a few new features.

The testing phase of iOS 26.3.1 implies that it will bring further bug fixes and optimizations. Traditionally, when indications of a minor iOS build surface in internal logs, the update generally becomes available within a week or two. For example, iOS 26.2.1 was confirmed on January 12 and was subsequently released on January 26, introducing AirTag 2 support and various bug fixes.

With new products anticipated to be launched soon, including a new iPhone model, it is probable that iOS 26.3.1 will be unveiled around the same period. This update might also offer compatibility for upcoming devices, in addition to the regular enhancements in security and bug fixes.

Information regarding iOS 26.3.1 will be disclosed once the update is live. Users are invited to share their feedback on iOS 26.3 in the comments.

# Apple Unveils iOS 26.4 Beta 2: Fresh Features and Improvements

Apple has just debuted the second beta iteration of iOS 26.4 for iPhone users, unveiling a host of thrilling features and enhancements. This update prioritizes elevating user experience, especially with AI-infused upgrades for Apple Music.

## Significant Changes in iOS 26.4 Beta 2

Here are some of the prominent changes and features found in the iOS 26.4 beta 2:

– **Revamped Apple Music Layout**: The views for albums and playlists in Apple Music have undergone a transformation, offering a more user-friendly and visually engaging experience. [Discover more here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/apple-music-in-ios-26-4-has-new-design-for-albums-playlists-and-more/)

– **AI-Enhanced “Playlist Playground”**: This groundbreaking feature leverages artificial intelligence to boost music discovery, enabling users to find new playlists customized to their listening preferences. [Learn more about this feature.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-will-activate-key-theft-prevention-feature-on-all-iphones/)

– **Personal Hotspot Data Monitoring Reports**: Users can now effortlessly track the data consumption of devices linked to their personal hotspot, allowing for improved data management. [Find out more here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/17/ios-26-4-makes-it-easy-to-see-whos-using-your-personal-hotspot/)

– **Additional Enhancements**: The beta version consists of a variety of other upgrades and features that enhance overall performance. [Explore all new features.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-beta-1-heres-everything-new/)

## Other Important Updates

Alongside the aforementioned changes, Apple is trialing multiple new capabilities in iOS 26.4:

– **End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging**: This feature focuses on boosting privacy and security in messaging. [Learn more about it here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-beta-adds-support-for-testing-end-to-end-encrypted-rcs-messaging/)

– **Upgraded Video Podcast Functionality**: The Podcasts app will undergo enhancements to improve the experience of viewing video podcasts. [Read more about this enhancement.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/apple-podcasts-app-gaining-enhanced-video-podcast-experience-in-ios-26-4/)

– **Detection of Stolen Devices**: This feature will be enabled by default on all iPhones, strengthening protection against theft. [More details available here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/ios-26-4-will-activate-key-theft-prevention-feature-on-all-iphones/)

– **CarPlay Video Functionality**: Progress is underway for integrating video support into CarPlay, broadening its capabilities. [Find out more here.](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/17/ios-26-4-preps-for-carplay-video-feature-code-reveals/)

## Conclusion

As Apple fine-tunes iOS 26.4, users can anticipate a variety of new features that enrich their iPhone experience. The addition of AI-driven capabilities in Apple Music and bolstered security measures emphasize Apple’s dedication to innovation and user contentment. Keep an eye out for more updates as we delve into the functionalities of iOS 26.4 beta 2.

Meta is at last rolling out scheduled messages for WhatsApp, addressing a long-awaited demand from users. This capability is presently in the works, as shown by insights from WABetaInfo in a recent TestFlight beta release of the application. While the feature is not available for beta testing just yet, a screenshot unveiled a new “Scheduled Messages” option in the Group Info section.

Scheduled messaging has become typical in numerous messaging platforms, such as Telegram and iMessage, whereas WhatsApp has previously been without this option. Users have turned to alternatives, like utilizing the Shortcuts app, to reach comparable outcomes.

It remains unclear whether WhatsApp’s scheduled messages will incorporate advanced functionalities like Telegram’s “Repeat” feature, which permits users to dispatch messages at predefined intervals. Regardless, the launch of this feature is an encouraging advancement for WhatsApp users, despite its inaccessibility for testing at this time.

After the development is completed, the feature will be introduced to a select group of beta testers for preliminary feedback before its official release.

# iPadOS 26.4 Beta 2: Latest Features and Changes

Apple has recently launched iPadOS 26.4 beta 2 for developers, available through the Software Update section in the Settings app. This update comes after the initial beta release and brings numerous new features and improvements for iPad users.

## New Features in iPadOS 26.4 Beta So Far

The first beta of iPadOS 26.4 introduced a range of enhancements and features, with beta 2 expected to enhance this groundwork. Although specific details about the new functionalities in beta 2 are still coming to light, here are some key aspects from the previous beta:

1. **New Emoji**: Code from the initial beta suggested that Apple intends to roll out new emoji characters as part of the 26.4 software update. Users can look forward to these emoji arriving in the latest beta.

2. **Improvements and Modifications**: As is typical with most beta releases, users can anticipate additional enhancements and tweaks to the operating system. Apple generally utilizes beta versions to test and refine features ahead of the final public version.

3. **Siri AI Enhancements**: Notably, there appear to be no indications of major improvements to Siri’s AI functionalities in this beta. Reports indicate that these upgrades might be saved for the forthcoming iOS and iPadOS 26.5 releases.

As the beta testing phase progresses, users are encouraged to share feedback regarding any alterations or new features they experience. The input from the community is crucial in refining the final release.

## Conclusion

The launch of iPadOS 26.4 beta 2 signifies another advancement in Apple’s continuous development of its iPad operating system. With new emoji and various enhancements, users can anticipate an improved experience. As always, Apple will keep gathering feedback from developers and users to guarantee optimal performance in the final version. Stay tuned for further updates as we explore more features of iPadOS 26.4.

Apple has recently launched beta 2 updates for a number of its operating systems, which include tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, and HomePod 26.4. This signifies the continuation of a new beta software cycle that the company has initiated. At the moment, these updates are available exclusively to developers, with public beta versions anticipated to follow soon.

The initial beta versions brought several notable changes across the various platforms. Particularly, tvOS 26.4 has officially eliminated the TV Shows and Movies iTunes apps from Apple TV, simplifying the user experience. Moreover, a new HDMI setting named ‘Continuous Audio Connection’ was introduced in the first beta, enhancing audio connectivity options for users.

In the area of visionOS 26.4, a fresh feature titled ‘foveated streaming’ has been activated, which aims to boost the performance of apps and games by optimizing rendering according to where the user is focusing. This feature is expected to elevate the overall experience for users of Apple’s visionOS devices.

Regarding watchOS 26.4, the modifications so far have been relatively minor, mainly consisting of adjustments to animations. Nonetheless, there is speculation that new features may be incorporated in future updates. For example, code found in iOS 26.4 beta 1 indicates that Apple intends to introduce new emoji to the system keyboard, which could possibly be featured in the forthcoming watchOS beta updates.

As developers delve into these new betas, feedback and findings about additional features or modifications are anticipated. Users are encouraged to share their discoveries in the comments, contributing to the community’s understanding of what these updates involve.

Overall, the beta 2 updates for tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and watchOS 26.4 reflect Apple’s continued dedication to improving its software offerings, with developers leading the way in testing and providing insights on these new features.

### iOS 26.4 Beta 2: Reversion of Search Design to iOS 18 Format

The release of iOS 26.4 beta 2 for developers brings significant modifications to the search design in select apps, reverting to a look that echoes iOS 18. This update comes after the first beta launch, which had introduced some unanticipated design features in the App Store.

#### Modifications in Search Design

The initial beta of iOS 26.4 introduced two crucial changes to the search capability:

1. **Incorporation of the Search Button**: The search button has transitioned from being an independent element to being embedded within the tab bar.
2. **Relocation of the Search Bar**: The search bar has been shifted to the upper part of the screen.

These alterations signify a return to the design strategy observed in iOS 18, wherein the search function was a primary navigation tab and the search bar was reliably placed at the top of the display. In contrast, iOS 26 had previously differentiated the search button from the tab bar and positioned the search bar at the lower section.

Initially, the App Store was the sole application to implement this previous design in beta 1, sparking speculation that it might have been a glitch or a tactical adjustment to emphasize the App Store’s advertising areas. However, with the arrival of beta 2, these same design changes have also been adopted in the Apple Games app, affirming that this is a conscious design decision rather than a mistake.

#### Ongoing Status and Prospective Consequences

Currently, the App Store and the Games app are the exclusive applications exhibiting these design alterations. The transition back to the iOS 18 aesthetic may suggest that Apple is contemplating broadening this design style to more apps ahead of the formal public launch of iOS 26.4.

The community is urged to express their opinions on the placement of the search bar—whether at the bottom or the top of the screen—illustrating the continuous progression of user interface design within Apple’s ecosystem.

### The TopMade MagSafe Wallet: An In-Depth Evaluation

Find My stands out as one of Apple’s remarkable offerings from the past decade, progressing from simply tracking iPhones to including Macs, iPads, and, more recently, physical objects via AirTags. The launch of third-party products that work with Find My has converted it into a powerful platform. Among these products is the TopMade MagSafe Wallet, which integrates Find My technology seamlessly, eliminating the necessity for an additional AirTag while keeping your wallet trackable within the Apple ecosystem.

#### Find My Integration and Battery Longevity

The TopMade MagSafe Wallet features complete Find My compatibility, enabling users to monitor its live location directly through the Apple Maps interface. If the wallet is misplaced nearby, users can activate a sound to find it and receive “Left Behind” alerts if they distance themselves from it outside their home. This integration streamlines the tracking experience, as the technology is embedded within the wallet instead of needing an external AirTag.

This tracking functionality is sustained by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which can endure up to six months on a single charge. The wallet charges wirelessly through MagSafe, removing the hassle of requiring specific cables or extra batteries, making it an ideal option for users.

#### Capacity and Magnetic Strength

Crafted for individuals who prefer to carry more, the TopMade wallet comprises four separate card slots, accommodating a maximum of nine cards. This is especially advantageous for those who require multiple cards, including credit cards, work IDs, and driver’s licenses. In addition, the wallet is equipped with RFID blocking technology to safeguard against skimming attempts, ensuring your financial details remain secure.

To support the load of numerous cards, the wallet has powerful magnets, providing a force of 4,000g—five times stronger than the official Apple wallet. This strength guarantees that the wallet stays firmly attached to your phone, even when retrieving it from your pocket.

Furthermore, the wallet functions as a stand, featuring an adjustable hinge that permits angles ranging from 15 to 170 degrees. This flexibility makes it perfect for checking notifications or watching videos, whether at a desk or on an airplane.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, the TopMade MagSafe Wallet is a practical and feature-packed accessory for Apple enthusiasts. Although it has a thickness of 0.67 inches, adding some excess weight to your carry, the advantages of ample card storage and built-in Find My tracking make it a worthy purchase. For those who frequently misplace their wallets or need to transport more than just a few cards, the TopMade MagSafe Wallet is an outstanding selection.

You can acquire the TopMade MagSafe Wallet on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/3O7x7Ud).

**Apple’s Concentration on AI: Highlights from the Workshop on Reasoning and Planning**

Apple has recently shared videos from its two-day Workshop on Reasoning and Planning, held last July. This event convened Apple engineers and scholars from renowned institutions including UCLA, Stanford University, and UC Berkeley to explore progress in artificial intelligence (AI). The workshop emphasized three primary themes: Reasoning and Planning, Applications to Agents, and Model Development.

### Important Content, Even Though It’s Seven Months Old

The workshop showcased nearly 30 research studies, all of which are available online. Despite a seven-month interval between the event and the video release, the material remains pertinent and enlightening. The discussions offer insight into how Apple’s engineers and academic professionals are tackling the current AI landscape, especially in reasoning and planning, along with the obstacles that await.

### Main Insights from the Event

The eight presentations provided by Apple address various dimensions of AI reasoning and planning. They investigate the strategies used in creating agentic systems and the ramifications of these technologies. Even with the swift progression in AI, the lessons derived from these talks are invaluable for anyone keen on the future of AI developments.

### Conclusion

Apple’s Workshop on Reasoning and Planning proves to be a meaningful addition to the ongoing conversation in AI. The insights acquired from the presentations not only mirror the existing AI research landscape but also allude to future innovations and unresolved issues in the domain. For those eager to grasp the complexities of AI reasoning and planning, these presentations are essential viewing.

**macOS 26.4 Beta 2: What Developers Should Anticipate**

Only a week following the debut of macOS 26.4 beta 1, Apple has launched beta 2 for developers, offering a variety of improvements and features. Although the earlier beta did not showcase the expected Gemini-powered Siri, macOS 26.4 is anticipated to deliver more significant updates than its forerunner, macOS 26.3, which primarily centered around bug fixes and performance enhancements.

### New Features and Enhancements

One of the standout features presented in macOS 26.4 beta 1 is the **Charge Limit setting**. This allows users to define a maximum charging level for their devices, a capability that has gained popularity in third-party software. Users can now select a desired charge limit ranging from 80% to 100%, which can assist in extending battery longevity.

Another key alteration is the reinstatement of the **compact tab bar** in Safari. This feature had been omitted in macOS Tahoe 26 but has returned, improving the user interface for those who favor a more simplified browsing experience.

Nonetheless, not every problem has been addressed. Initially, Apple’s release notes mentioned that a bug concerning the corner radius—where the resize pointer does not align with the window’s corner shape—had been resolved. This was subsequently updated to confirm that it remains a “known issue,” leaving users optimistic that beta 2 will rectify this complication.

Moreover, macOS 26.4 will start alerting users about the **termination of support for Rosetta 2**, Apple’s dynamic binary translator that allows Apple Silicon Macs to execute Intel-based applications. Although support is set to officially conclude with macOS 28, these preliminary warnings aim to prompt developers to update their applications accordingly.

### Release Details

The release build for macOS 26.4 beta 2 is designated as 25E5218f. As developers delve into the new beta, additional features and enhancements may be discovered, and updates will be issued as more information becomes accessible.

### Summary

With the introduction of macOS 26.4 beta 2, developers can anticipate a more feature-rich experience, even as they await the anticipated upgrades to Siri. The rollout of the Charge Limit setting and the reinstatement of the compact tab bar represent notable advancements, while the persistent issues underscore the iterative process of software development. As always, developers are encouraged to offer feedback to facilitate the refinement of these updates ahead of the official launch.

### iOS 26.4 Beta 2: Enhancing Support for Encrypted RCS Messaging

Apple has unveiled iOS 26.4 beta 2 for developers, bringing notable improvements to the messaging features on iPhones, especially regarding Rich Communication Services (RCS). This update broadens the scope of encrypted RCS messaging, enabling secure communication not just among iPhone users but also between iPhone and Android devices.

#### Key Features of iOS 26.4 Beta 2

1. **Broadened RCS Encryption Support**: The earlier beta version, iOS 26.4 beta 1, allowed RCS encryption solely for iPhone-to-iPhone messaging. The newly released beta version extends this feature to include messaging between iPhones and Android devices, representing a significant advancement in cross-platform secure messaging.

2. **Phased Rollout**: The testing support for RCS encryption is being gradually rolled out to iPhone users who have updated to iOS 26.4 beta 2. Android users will need to have the latest beta of the Google Messages app for compatibility. It’s important to keep in mind that access to this feature may differ based on mobile carriers.

3. **User Interface Enhancements**: After the update, iPhone users can go to Settings > Messages > RCS Messaging to locate the new “End-to-End Encryption (Beta)” toggle, which is activated by default. The Messages app interface has also adapted to showcase these updates. Users will observe a new lock icon in chat threads where RCS encryption is applied, which will also appear in iMessage threads, emphasizing the security of these interactions.

4. **Testing Focus**: It is crucial to recognize that RCS end-to-end encryption will not be part of the final release of iOS 26.4. Rather, it is available for testing in this beta version, with intentions for a forthcoming update to officially integrate the feature.

#### Background on RCS Support

Apple first implemented RCS support in iOS 18.1, which introduced features like typing indicators and read receipts for messaging between iPhone and Android users. The announcement of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages was made by Apple in March, underscoring the company’s dedication to enhancing user privacy and security in messaging.

#### Conclusion

The launch of iOS 26.4 beta 2 marks a notable progression in Apple’s messaging functionalities, especially regarding security and cross-platform interaction. As developers and users explore these new features, the prospects for enhanced messaging experiences across devices grow increasingly encouraging. Anticipated future updates are expected to fortify these advancements, further embedding RCS encryption into the iPhone messaging framework.