Apple continues testing the iOS 26.4 update, and the fourth beta now rolls out to developers and public beta testers. As the beta cycle moves closer to the final release, Apple usually focuses on smaller changes instead of major additions.
The fourth beta introduces new emoji characters, changes an accessibility setting name, removes the RCS encryption beta that appeared in earlier builds, and adds support for Apple’s latest hardware.
New Emoji Characters
Apple added several new emoji characters in iOS 26.4 beta 4, expanding the emoji library that users can access across the system. The update introduces a range of new symbols that cover objects, animals, and expressive faces.
- Trombone
- Treasure chest
- Distorted face
- Hairy creature
- Fight cloud
- Orca
- Landslide
The update also introduces new customization options for existing emoji. Apple added skin tone modifiers for the people wrestling emoji and for dancers wearing bunny ears. In addition, Apple now offers a gender neutral option for the ballet dancer emoji, which gives users more flexibility when choosing characters.
Reduce Bright Effects Accessibility Setting
Apple updated the name of an accessibility setting that already existed in earlier versions of iOS. The previous setting called Reduce Highlighting Effects now appears as Reduce Bright Effects.
The new name explains the function more clearly. Apple says the feature reduces strong visual highlights and flashing effects when users interact with on screen elements such as buttons or the keyboard. This change helps users who prefer a calmer visual interface or those who experience discomfort from bright interface effects.
RCS Encryption Beta Removed
Apple removed the RCS end-to-end encryption beta in iOS 26.4 beta 4. Earlier beta versions included this feature for testing, but Apple already confirmed that encrypted RCS messaging will not launch with the iOS 26.4 update.
During earlier tests, Apple enabled encryption for RCS conversations between iPhone devices and also between iPhone and Android phones. iMessage conversations already support encryption, but Apple plans to extend similar protection to RCS messages in a future iOS update. Once Apple fully rolls out this feature, iPhone-to-Android conversations will receive the same level of encryption that iMessage users already have.
Support for New Apple Devices
iOS 26.4 beta 4 and iPadOS 26.4 beta 4 also introduce support for Apple’s latest hardware. These beta versions install on the newly released iPhone 17e and the M4 iPad Air for the first time.
This change allows developers and testers who own the newest devices to install the latest beta builds and test compatibility before Apple releases the final version of iOS 26.4 to the public.
Apple will continue refining the update through additional beta releases if needed, but the current version already shows most of the smaller adjustments that will likely appear in the final release.
