Apple releases iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 Release Candidate (RC)
Apple has just released the iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 Release Candidate (RC) builds to developers and public beta testers. As the final step before the general public rollout—expected as early as next week—this update brings a suite of highly anticipated features, ranging from AI-powered music tools to critical bug fixes.
Here is everything you need to know about the latest seed and why it’s more than just a standard “point” update.
What’s New in iOS 26.4 & iPadOS 26.4?
While earlier 26.x updates focused on the “Liquid Glass” redesign, version 26.4 hones in on functionality, accessibility, and the expansion of the Apple Creator Studio ecosystem.
1. Apple Music: Playlist Playground & Concerts
The headline feature is Playlist Playground, a generative AI tool that allows users to create custom playlists using text prompts (e.g., “Create a high-energy workout mix with 90s house vibes”).
- Concerts Near You: A new discovery tab helps you find local shows from artists in your library.
- Offline Music Recognition: Shazaming a song while offline now saves the request and identifies the track automatically once you’re back on Wi-Fi or cellular.
2. The Keyboard Fix Everyone Wanted
If you’ve struggled with the “laggy” or “inaccurate” keyboard experience reported since the launch of iOS 26, this update is for you. Apple’s release notes specifically mention improved keyboard accuracy when typing quickly, addressing a persistent bug that caused missed keystrokes or incorrect autocorrect behavior.
3. New Emoji & Wallpapers
The emoji keyboard expands with 8 new additions, including:
- Bigfoot
- Orca (Killer Whale)
- Trombone
- Ballet Dancer
- Landslide
- Distorted Face
4. iPadOS Exclusive: The Return of the Compact Tab Bar
For iPad users, Safari gets a major usability boost. After being removed in previous versions, the Compact Tab Bar is back as an option in Settings. This condenses the address bar and tabs into a single row, maximizing screen real estate for browsing.
Key Enhancements & Changes
| Feature | Description |
| Purchase Sharing | Family Sharing now allows adults to use their own payment methods for individual purchases while still sharing subscriptions. |
| Freeform | Integrates with Apple Creator Studio for AI-powered image generation and an expanded premium content library. |
| Urgent Reminders | You can now mark Reminders as “Urgent” to bypass Focus filters and see them at the top of Smart Lists. |
| Liquid Glass | Refined animations for the “Reduce Motion” setting to assist users with motion sensitivity. |
How to Install the iOS 26.4 RC
If you are enrolled in the Apple Beta Software Program, you can download the update now:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Ensure Beta Updates is toggled to the “iOS 26 Public Beta” or “Developer Beta” (depending on your profile).
- Tap Update Now.
Note: Since this is an RC (Release Candidate), the build number (23E244) is typically identical to the version that will be released to the general public next week, barring any last-minute critical bugs.
When is the Public Release Date?
Historically, Apple releases the final version 5–7 days after the RC. Expect iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 to land on Monday, March 23, or Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
This update also sets the stage for the iOS 26.5 cycle, which is rumored to finally introduce the first Gemini-powered Siri features and advanced Apple Intelligence frameworks later this spring.
