Apple iOS 26.4 release candidate is here: Key features and changes revealed

Apple is gearing up to launch the highly anticipated iOS 26.4 update, with a public rollout expected in just a few days. Prior to the official release, the company has made the release candidate available to beta testers, showcasing an array of new features set to enhance the user experience. As per the details from the release candidate notes, iOS 26.4 will introduce several exciting upgrades to Apple's suite of first-party applications, including Apple Music, Freeform, and Podcasts. Among the notable additions, users can look forward to the introduction of eight new emojis, featuring designs like an orca, trombone, landslide, ballet dancer, and a distorted face, enriching the emoji keyboard. Apple Music is receiving a significant overhaul with five innovative features, including a new AI-driven "Playlist Playground" that creates playlists based on user descriptions. Additionally, the app will showcase a refreshed user interface for albums and playlists, along with a "Concerts" feature that informs users about nearby performances. Notably, the update will also integrate "Offline Music Recognition" into the Control Centre and introduce an Ambient Music widget for the home screen. The Freeform app is set to gain advanced tools exclusive to Apple Creator Studio, enhancing image creation and editing capabilities, alongside a premium content library. Users will appreciate the addition of a new ‘Urgent’ smart list in Reminders for prioritizing urgent tasks, while the Health app will expand with new Sleep and Vitals data features. Given Apple's historical release patterns, iOS 26.4 is anticipated to be available as early as next week, with media speculation suggesting a launch window between March 23 and March 24. Users should stay tuned for the official announcement as the countdown to the update begins.