Apple has released the watchOS 26.4 Release Candidate to developers and public testers today. This final build comes exactly one week after the fourth beta and signals that the software is ready for a wide rollout, provided no major issues appear in this final round of testing.
How to update
If you are already enrolled in the watchOS 26.4 beta program, you can install the RC build through the Watch app on your paired iPhone:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Tap General
- Tap Software Update
- Download and install the watchOS 26.4 Release Candidate
Keep in mind that your Apple Watch must be on its charger, in range of your iPhone, and have at least 50% battery to complete the installation.
All the changes
While watchOS 26.4 is a smaller update compared to the initial launch of watchOS 26, it includes several functional refinements and fresh customization options:
- Average Bedtime Metric: A new data point in the Sleep app that syncs with Health to help users track long-term consistency in their sleep schedule.
- New Emoji: Support for the 2026 emoji set, including the orca, trombone, landslide, and distorted face.
- Workout App Icon: A new workout type icon that allows users to start specific sessions with a single tap.
- Liquid Glass Refinements: Minor visual tweaks to the “Liquid Glass” design language for better legibility in the Smart Stack.
- Bug Fixes: Resolved an issue where Workout Buddy audio motivation could sometimes fail to trigger during outdoor runs.
- Current build number: 23T239, which replaces the beta 4 build 23T5236a.
Apple has positioned this update primarily as a stability release, focusing on the reliability of health tracking and system animations ahead of the spring season.
With the Release Candidate now available, the official public version of watchOS 26.4 is expected to launch early next week. We will let you know if any additional hidden features are discovered in this build.
