Apple’s iOS 26.4 beta cycle is moving fast. One day after the second developer beta landed, Apple has now pushed iOS 26.4 beta 2 out to public beta testers as well, widening access beyond developer accounts.
This build carries the version number 23E5218e. It focuses on refinements rather than big visual changes, with Apple continuing to tune features that first appeared in the initial 26.4 beta.
If you’re already on the iOS 26 beta track, the update should appear as a normal over-the-air download in Settings.
How to update to iOS 26.4 beta 2
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Tap Software Update
- Tap Beta Updates
- Select iOS 26 Public Beta (or iOS 26 Developer Beta, if you use that track)
- Go back, then tap Download and Install
Before you install, back up your iPhone. Beta builds can break apps and drain battery faster than usual.
Changes in iOS 26.4 beta 2
RCS encryption testing expands
Beta 2 broadens testing for end-to-end encryption in RCS messaging, including more cross-platform scenarios than the first beta.
Games app interface tweaks
Apple has also adjusted navigation and search behavior inside the Games app, continuing the app-by-app UI cleanup seen earlier in the 26.4 cycle.
Small account and profile cleanups
Expect minor layout changes on Apple Account pages inside Apple apps, plus practical fixes like easier removal of contact posters and avatars.
Apple has not said which beta tweaks will make the final public release, and it can still change items between now and the stable build.
That’s what’s new so far. Let us know in the comments what you noticed after installing iOS 26.4 beta 2.
None of my devices are find Public Beta 2. Any thoughts on how to resolve this?
Public beta 2 of ios & ipados 26.4 not being offered to me, only beta 1. I had no problems downloading downloading beta 2 for tvos or macos. Has beta 2 for ios been pulled or something? Any info would be appreciated.
I am having the same issue on my device actually, will update if found something on it