Apple has officially released the fourth developer beta of its upcoming software update, iOS 26, on Tuesday. This latest version introduces subtle changes to the Liquid Glass redesign and marks the reintroduction of AI-powered notification summaries for news, among other enhancements. This rollout comes just ahead of the anticipated iOS 26 public beta, which is expected to launch later this week.
The primary purpose of the developer betas is to provide mobile app developers with ample time to test their applications on Apple's new software, ensuring they are prepared for the wider public launch of the new operating system in the coming months. Due to consumer interest in early access, Apple has been offering public betas following its Worldwide Developers Conference in June for several years. This initiative allows iPhone users to experience the updated software before its global release while minimizing potential stability issues and bugs.
The latest iteration, iOS 26 beta 4, showcases several features that users can expect in the forthcoming public beta. One notable enhancement is the introduction of a new “Welcome” splash screen that appears when users first update their software. Additionally, the update includes introductory screens for various features, such as Siri and the revamped AI-powered notification summaries and prioritization options, as well as a refreshed Camera app.
Earlier this year, Apple temporarily paused its AI notification summaries feature after receiving complaints from the BBC. The controversy arose when the summary inaccurately reported that Luigi Mangione, who was accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had died by suicide. In response, Apple announced that a software update would be implemented to clarify the AI’s summarizations. The setup screen for this feature, still in beta, now includes a warning message in the “News & Entertainment” section, indicating that “Summarization may change the meaning of the original headlines” and advising users to “Verify information.”
Early adopters of the iOS 26 beta 4 have also observed that Apple is continuing to enhance its Liquid Glass user interface redesign. While beta 3 had reduced some of the more transparent elements within certain applications, beta 4 appears to revert this decision. Testers have noted updates across various apps, including the App Store, Photos, Apple Music, Weather, and more. Additionally, the Notification Center now features a dynamic tint effect that adjusts as users scroll.
The updated software also introduces a new dynamic wallpaper that changes colors, as well as fresh CarPlay wallpapers. However, at the time of publication, the release notes for beta 4 had not been made available on Apple’s Developer website, suggesting that there may be additional minor bug fixes and performance enhancements yet to be discovered.
Alongside the release of iOS 26 beta 4, Apple has also launched new versions of its other betas, including iPadOS 26 beta 4, macOS 26 beta 4, watchOS 26 beta 4, tvOS 26 beta 4, visionOS 26 beta 4, and Xcode 26 beta 4. These updates reflect Apple’s ongoing commitment to refining its software ecosystem and enhancing user experience across all devices.
