Apple has released macOS 26.4 beta 1 to developers, kicking off the next testing cycle just days after the public rollout of macOS 26.3.
macOS 26.3 shipped to everyone on February 11, 2026 (build 25D125). With that update now out, Apple is moving straight into the 26.4 track, starting with this first developer beta.
Right now, Apple has not published a full public-facing feature list for macOS 26.4 beta 1. Early expectations point to Siri-related work and other platform tweaks that typically land in a .4 release.
How to install macOS 26.4 beta 1
Before you start, back up your Mac. Betas can break apps, drain battery faster, or introduce bugs that are hard to roll back from.
Then follow these quick steps:
- Open System Settings
- Go to General
- Select Software Update
- Tap the Beta Updates option and choose the macOS Developer Beta
- Download and install macOS 26.4 beta 1
Apple also requires a developer account to access developer betas, even if you use the free tier.
Changes in macOS 26.4 beta 1
Apple has not shared detailed release notes in the public announcement beyond the usual installation path, so the smartest way to treat this build is as an early baseline.
Here is what you should watch for as you test:
- Bug fixes and performance tuning: Early betas often target regressions reported after the prior public release.
- App compatibility updates: Some third-party apps may need updates once 26.4 betas begin rolling out widely.
- Siri and Apple Intelligence groundwork: This is the part many people will track closely. If Apple adds new Siri behavior, new system prompts, or intelligence-related controls, it will likely show up first in developer builds like this one.
We are digging into the update and will report back if we spot any major changes, including anything tied to Siri and Apple Intelligence.
If you have installed macOS 26.4 beta 1, tell us what you are seeing so far in the comments.
