Apple Releases iOS 26.4 Beta 2
Apple has released the second beta version of its upcoming iOS 26.4 software update to developers for testing. The release is part of the company's regular cadence of iterative software improvement ahead of a full public launch. The update also highlighted Apple's ongoing investments in its US-based manufacturing operations.
- The second beta expands testing of end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging to include Android devices, a significant step towards secure cross-platform communication. - A new accessibility feature, "Reduce Highlighting Effects," has been added under Display & Text Size, designed to soften the visual intensity of button and slider edges. - User interface refinements include relocating the search bar in the Games app to the top and enhancing the transparency of the Home Screen edit menu. - This beta builds on features introduced in the first beta of iOS 26.4, which included video playback in Apple Podcasts and a new AI-powered "Playlist Playground" in Apple Music. - The public release of iOS 26.4 is anticipated for late March 2026, following Apple's typical release schedule for major point updates. - Apple's investment in U.S. manufacturing includes producing the Mac mini and advanced AI servers in Houston. - The company has doubled its U.S. Advanced Manufacturing Fund to $10 billion and is on track to purchase over 100 million advanced chips from TSMC's Arizona facility in 2026. - In Houston, Apple is also constructing a 20,000-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center to provide hands-on training for students and supplier employees.
