Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

# iPadOS 26.4: New Features and Improvements

iPadOS 26.4 has been released for all users, bringing a variety of new features aimed at enriching the iPad experience. This update emphasizes system-wide enhancements and upgrades to Apple’s native applications.

## Systemwide Enhancements and Built-in App Improvements

To upgrade to iPadOS 26.4, users can go to Settings ⇾ General ⇾ Software Update. This latest version offers numerous enhancements that appeal to both casual and pro users.

### Major Changes to Apple Music

A significant update in iPadOS 26.4 is the revamp of Apple Music. Notable features include:

– **Playlist Playground**: A feature powered by AI to help users craft custom playlists.
– **Concert Information**: Access to concert details for local artists and events is now available.
– **Revamped Fullscreen Design**: An updated layout for albums and playlists that enhances visual appeal.
– Additional enhancements aimed at enriching the music listening experience.

### New Emoji Additions

iPadOS 26.4 introduces eight fresh emojis, broadening the expressive choices for users. The new emojis are:

– Ballet Dancer
– Distorted Face
– Fight Cloud
– Hairy Creature
– Landslide
– Orca
– Trombone
– Treasure Chest

### Improved Multi-Window Management

For users who often handle multiple windows, iPadOS 26.4 adds a new ‘Hidden Windows’ popup feature. This tool assists users in monitoring open windows, ensuring that critical tasks remain accessible amidst a busy workspace.

### Home Screen and Wallpaper Enhancements

The iPad Home Screen now boasts two new Ambient Music widgets, simplifying music playback directly from the home interface. Furthermore, the wallpaper gallery has undergone a redesign, presenting users with a fresh array of backgrounds.

### Built-in App Upgrades

This update also encompasses various enhancements across Apple’s built-in applications, further improving functionality and user experience.

## Conclusion

iPadOS 26.4 introduces a wealth of new features and enhancements that boost the overall usability of the iPad. From substantial updates to Apple Music to new emojis and improved window management, this update is crafted to meet the diverse needs of users. Users are encouraged to explore these new features and share their favorite additions in the comments.

# iOS 26.4: Improvements and Features for Your iPhone

Apple has unveiled iOS 26.4, presenting a variety of improvements designed to enhance user experience on iPhones. This update features 13 significant additions, including fresh emoji characters, updates to Apple Music, and enhancements in keyboard precision.

## What’s New in iOS 26.4

As per Apple, this update offers not just new features but also addresses bug fixes and security enhancements. Here’s an in-depth overview of what’s introduced:

### Apple Music Improvements

1. **Playlist Playground (beta)**: This function creates a playlist based on user descriptions, complete with a title, description, and track listing.
2. **Concerts**: Assists users in discovering local performances from artists they follow and suggests new artists based on their listening patterns.
3. **Offline Music Recognition**: This function recognizes songs without needing an internet connection, providing results automatically once the device reconnects online.
4. **Ambient Music Widget**: Curates playlists for Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Wellbeing, making them accessible on the Home Screen.
5. **Full-Screen Backgrounds**: Album and playlist pages now feature a more immersive design.

### Accessibility Enhancements

1. **Reduce Bright Effects**: Diminishes bright flashes when engaging with elements like buttons.
2. **Subtitle and Caption Settings**: Simplified access to customize and preview subtitles and captions during media playback.
3. **Reduce Motion Setting**: More effectively minimizes animations for users sensitive to screen movements.

### Additional Improvements

1. **New Emoji**: Eight fresh emoji characters, including an orca, a trombone, a landslide, a ballet dancer, and a distorted face, are now available.
2. **Freeform Updates**: Enhanced image creation and editing tools, along with a premium content library, have been incorporated.
3. **Urgent Reminders**: Users can designate reminders as urgent and filter them in Smart Lists.
4. **Purchase Sharing**: Adult members within Family Sharing groups can utilize their own payment methods for purchases.
5. **Keyboard Precision**: Improved precision when typing swiftly.

## Looking Ahead: iOS 26.5 and iOS 27

The subsequent anticipated update is iOS 26.5, which is projected to bring new Siri and Apple Intelligence features powered by Google’s Gemini AI models. Apple has collaborated with Google to incorporate these functionalities, which were first showcased in June 2024.

Moreover, Apple is likely to introduce further AI features in iOS 27, with a preview expected at WWDC 2026 in June. Development of iOS 27 will proceed through the summer, with a public launch predicted for September.

In summary, iOS 26.4 delivers a plethora of new features and enhancements that elevate the overall user experience on iPhones. What are your favorite new features in this update?

Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD owners can now take advantage of the new tvOS 26.4 software update, which brings three thrilling new features aimed at improving the viewing experience.

### #1: ‘Genius Browse’ Provides Recommendations for TV and Movies

Genius Browse is a novel feature unique to Apple’s TV app, similar to the old Genius feature from iTunes. By scrolling down the Home tab in the TV app, users can discover various recommendation categories like ‘Good for a Date Night’ or ‘Based on a Book.’ These categories update frequently and offer a curated selection of titles to investigate.

Moreover, within each list, users can find relevant suggestions for any specific title they choose, creating multiple layers of recommendations. This feature encompasses not only Apple’s streaming service but also includes additional supported platforms such as Prime Video and HBO Max. Users can personalize recommendations based on their profile and favorite genre.

### #2: New Audio Configuration

The update also brings a new ‘Continuous Audio Connection’ feature located in Settings. This feature employs a Dolby MAT connection for effortless transitions across audio formats. While it seems to be designed for Sonos users according to beta feedback, it is expected to benefit a wider audience. Users can find this setting in Settings > Video and Audio > Audio Format > HDMI Output.

### #3: Simplified Subtitle Customization

tvOS 26.4 improves the subtitle experience by providing customization options within the systemwide video player. Within the TV app and any application using Apple’s default video player, users can now select from a range of subtitle styles, including Classic, Large Text, Outline Text, and Transparent Background. A ‘Manage Styles’ button enables further personalization of subtitles, making these options more user-friendly than ever.

### tvOS 26.4’s Removed Apps and Conclusion

Alongside the new features, the update eliminates two legacy apps: the standalone TV Shows and Movies apps. Their functionalities have been merged into the Apple TV app, enhancing the user experience. Users can still buy movies and shows via the Store tab of the TV app, along with access to streaming content.

To upgrade to tvOS 26.4 for Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD, users should navigate to the Software Update section in Settings.

Which features of tvOS 26.4 are you most looking forward to? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

**visionOS 26.4: Fresh Enhancements for Apple Vision Pro Users**

visionOS 26.4 is now live for Apple Vision Pro users, bringing notable improvements, especially in streaming technology and podcast functionalities.

### Foveated Streaming

The highlight of visionOS 26.4 is the rollout of **foveated streaming**. This innovation enables app developers to deliver high-quality content tailored to the user’s focus, enhancing performance and efficiency. As stated in Apple’s developer guidelines, existing virtual reality games and applications can be streamed to the Vision Pro, facilitating a smooth integration of native spatial content with streamed settings. For example, a racing game could present live gauges using RealityKit while streaming intricate outdoor landscapes from a distant server.

Though it might take developers a while to fully adopt this feature, the initial feedback during the beta phase has been encouraging, with growing enthusiasm for the potential uses of foveated streaming.

### Upgraded Video Podcast Experience

Another significant upgrade in visionOS 26.4 is the enhancement of the **Apple Podcasts** application. Users can now experience a new video podcast format, making it easy to switch between video and audio versions of episodes. This enhancement also includes the option to download videos for offline enjoyment, enriching the overall podcast experience.

### New Emoji

Beyond these features, visionOS 26.4 brings eight new emoji across multiple platforms, including the Vision Pro, adding a playful aspect to user interactions.

### Conclusion

With the launch of visionOS 26.4, Apple Vision Pro users can anticipate enhanced streaming abilities and a better podcast experience. As developers begin to utilize the advantages of foveated streaming, the opportunities for immersive applications are sure to grow. Users are invited to explore the new features and share their experiences with the community.

### Claude Code ‘Auto Mode’ Enables Extended Task Execution with Minimal Interruptions

Anthropic has rolled out a new “auto mode” permissions setting in Claude Code, aimed at optimizing the development workflow by permitting tasks to run longer with fewer disruptions. This mode acts as a middle ground between the default conservative permissions and the ability to bypass permissions altogether.

#### Grasping Claude Code Permissions

By default, Claude Code functions under strict permissions that mandate user consent for each file writing and bash command. This cautious method guarantees safety but may impede productivity, particularly for developers who need to conduct lengthy tasks without constant interruptions.

Prior to the launch of “auto mode,” developers encountered a tough decision: either stick to the rigid permissions or take the risk of running tasks unmonitored, which could result in various problems.

#### Advantages of Auto Mode

The newly introduced “auto mode” achieves a compromise between ease and safety. It enables developers to carry out longer tasks with decreased interruptions while still ensuring some level of risk oversight. The mode utilizes a classifier that assesses each tool call prior to execution, verifying for potentially dangerous actions like mass file deletions, unauthorized data access, or executing harmful code.

– **Safe Actions**: If the classifier identifies an action as safe, it proceeds automatically.
– **Risky Actions**: Actions considered risky are blocked, prompting Claude to seek alternative solutions. Should Claude repeatedly try blocked actions, a permission prompt will be activated for user intervention.

While “auto mode” lessens risks compared to the choice of skipping permissions altogether, it does not completely erase them. Anthropic recommends users to apply this mode in controlled environments to reduce potential risks.

#### Accessibility and Upcoming Features

Claude Teams users can utilize the “auto mode” as a research preview starting now, while enterprise and API clients will acquire access in the near future. For additional details, users may visit the official [Claude blog](https://claude.com/blog/auto-mode).

Along with the “auto mode,” Anthropic has also introduced a feature that permits Claude to manage Mac systems, further enhancing its functionalities and usefulness for users.

### watchOS 26.4: Improvements to the Workout App, Fresh Emoji, and Bug Corrections

Apple has just released watchOS 26.4, the newest update for Apple Watch users, bringing several key improvements and corrections. This update comes after the release of iOS 26.4 and is designed to enhance the user experience on the Apple Watch.

#### Major Updates in watchOS 26.4

1. **Workout App Redesign Enhancements**:
The Workout app underwent a major redesign in watchOS 26, which received varied feedback from users. Although watchOS 26.4 doesn’t revert to the former design, it features a new option that enables users to initiate their workouts in a more intuitive manner. Users can now tap the icon of the workout type to start their exercise session right away. This modification responds to user input regarding the earlier design, where the icon served only as a visual cue and not as an operational start button.

2. **New Emoji Inclusion**:
Alongside app upgrades, watchOS 26.4 brings in support for eight additional emojis, expanding the emoji keyboard accessible on the Apple Watch. The newly introduced emojis feature a Ballet Dancer, Distorted Face, Fight Cloud, and more, allowing users to convey themselves more expressively in their communications.

3. **Bug Corrections**:
The update also encompasses various bug corrections aimed at enhancing the general performance and stability of the Apple Watch. These corrections are anticipated to improve the user experience by resolving problems that may have affected earlier iterations of the software.

#### Summary

The watchOS 26.4 update provides significant improvements to the Workout app, unveils new emojis, and tackles bugs, leading to a more seamless and enjoyable user experience. Apple continues to enhance its software offerings based on user feedback, ensuring that the Apple Watch remains an essential tool for fitness and communication. Users are encouraged to check out these updates and provide their feedback on the modifications.

After several beta releases (including a new one issued today) and a release candidate, Apple is now deploying macOS 26.4 to all compatible Macs. Here’s what’s new.

## Numerous new features and a much-appreciated bug fix

macOS 26.4 features a significant bug fix addressing the window corner radius issue, where the resize pointer fails to adhere to the window’s corner shape. Initially categorized by Apple as a fixed bug, the release notes were later updated to label it as a “known issue.” Now, it appears the problem is genuinely resolved.

The update also brings eight new emoji, such as ballet dancers, distorted face, and fight cloud. Notably, these new emoji will only be visible to users who have macOS 26.4 installed; others will see the standard “missing emoji” character: ?⃞.

With macOS 26.4, Apple will begin alerting users about the impending end of support for Rosetta 2. Apple previously stated that macOS 27 would be the final system version to support their transition layer from Intel to Apple Silicon. From macOS 26.4 onwards, users will be informed whenever they launch a Rosetta-dependent app that support will soon cease.

Regarding new functionalities, macOS 26.4 introduces the Charge Limit setting, which allows users to limit their charging to between 80% and 100%. This has been a widely requested feature in third-party applications for some time, but users can now modify it natively.

If you utilize Freeform and subscribe to the new Creator Studio suite, macOS 26.4 provides access to premium images in the Content Hub, enhancing low-resolution images, and compatibility with OpenAI’s image-generating model.

macOS 26.4 reinstates the compact tab bar layout in Safari, which was removed when macOS 26 was first launched. Users can now again opt between Separate and Compact.

Moreover, macOS 26.4, in addition to its equivalents, includes the following features:

– **Reminders**: Besides marking reminders as urgent through a keyboard shortcut, users can now filter urgent reminders in Smart Lists.

– **Purchase Sharing**: Family Sharing will no longer necessitate that all purchases be charged to the family organizer’s credit card.

– **Subtitles and captions**: These settings are now much easier to locate while viewing media, with a real-time preview accessible directly from the captions icon.

Apple has recently introduced its newest significant software updates, encompassing iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, macOS 26.4, and additional versions. In conjunction with these public launches, fresh builds of the 26.4 updates have been released for beta testers.

### New Builds for Beta Testers

For users operating the beta editions of iOS 26.4, macOS 26.4, or other associated updates, a new build is now ready for installation. The updates for beta testers feature:

– **iOS 26.4 (Build 23E246)**
– **iPadOS 26.4 (Build 23E246)**
– **macOS 26.4 (Build 25E246)**
– **watchOS 26.4 (Build 23T240)**
– **tvOS 26.4 (Build 23L243)**
– **visionOS 26.4 (Build 23O247)**

These builds align with the versions made available to the public, and any modifications from the earlier release candidate (RC) builds are projected to be slight. Beta testers may not perceive notable differences, but the public release versions are expected to have fewer bugs in total.

### User Feedback

Apple invites users to provide their insights regarding the new 26.4 releases, encouraging feedback on any modifications or enhancements noticed.

### Conclusion

With the rollout of iOS 26.4 and its respective versions, Apple continues to advance its software ecosystem, offering users new features and enhancements while also accommodating beta testers with refreshed builds.

### Withings BeamO: A Portable 4-in-1 Health Scanner

Two years back, Withings introduced BeamO, a multi-functional device crafted to sync smoothly with Apple Health. As of now, Apple has commenced the sale of this groundbreaking “portable 4-in-1 health scanner” for the first time. Withings refers to BeamO as a “mini-clinic” that delivers immediate, medical-grade insights into vital health indicators such as body temperature, heart activity, and lung performance.

#### Features of the Withings BeamO Health Scanner

Apple’s product page showcases seven primary features of the Withings BeamO health scanner:

1. **Contactless Thermometer**: The gadget employs cutting-edge technology to pinpoint the temporal artery, allowing for swift and precise temperature assessments suitable for individuals of all ages.

2. **Electrocardiogram (ECG)**: BeamO is capable of capturing a 30-second ECG to identify irregularities like Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib). Users can opt to have their ECG reviewed by a cardiologist within 24 hours.

3. **Integrated Stethoscope and Pulse Oximeter**: These functionalities enable users to track oxygen saturation levels and listen to lung sounds, making it especially beneficial for those with asthma, COPD, or managing respiratory illnesses.

4. **Portability**: The lightweight nature of BeamO guarantees it is always prepared for health evaluations, whether at home or during travel.

5. **Multi-User Capability**: The device can accommodate up to 8 users with automatic detection, making it perfect for families, caregivers, and kids.

6. **Health Reporting**: Users can conveniently create and dispatch health reports to their physicians with a single tap or stream real-time measurements during teleconsultations via HealthLink.

7. **Data Syncing**: BeamO connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to the Withings App and Apple Health, ensuring that all health information, trends, and medication reminders are securely archived and readily accessible.

#### Availability and Pricing

The Withings BeamO health scanner is offered exclusively online, meaning it will not be available in physical Apple Store locations. Currently, Amazon lists the Withings BeamO for $249.99, while Apple’s price stands at $299.95.

In closing, the Withings BeamO health scanner signifies a major leap in personal health monitoring, merging various diagnostic functionalities into one portable device that connects with established health platforms like Apple Health.

Apple has recently introduced iOS 26.4 along with associated updates for users on the newest operating systems. In addition to this primary release, Apple has also launched updates for its earlier software versions, such as iOS 18.7.7, macOS 15.7.5, macOS 14.8.5, iPadOS 18.7.7, watchOS 8.8.2, and watchOS 5.3.10.

### iOS 18.7.7 and Additional OS Updates Center on Security Enhancements

For Apple device users, new software updates are now accessible for installation. The main updates include iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS 26.4, which offer an array of enhancements and features. Nevertheless, even those with older operating systems can take advantage of the most recent updates.

Reports indicate that updates for versions prior to iOS 26 focus on security enhancements. Apple’s release notes highlight that these updates are vital for protecting devices against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Thus, users operating iOS or iPadOS 18, macOS Sonoma or Sequoia, or watchOS 8 or 5 are urged to apply these updates to secure their devices.

### Significance of Updating

Maintaining your device updated is crucial not just for accessing new features but also for ensuring security. The updates issued today are particularly aimed at resolving security weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. By upgrading to the latest versions, users can protect their personal data and boost the overall performance of their devices.

### Conclusion

If you are still utilizing any of the older software versions listed, it is recommended to contemplate updating to the latest OS 26. The updates not only bolster security but also enhance the user experience with fresh features and functionality. Users are advised to regularly check for updates and install them without delay to keep their devices secure and efficient.