In more ways than one, the iOS 26 beta 4 is a noteworthy update. As expected, Apple has put more emphasis on polishing the software by ironing out the quirks and tweaking the crucial elements. Having taken the beta for a spin, I must say that most of the refinements do make sense. Though it’s going to take some time for the software to be labelled as bug-free. Whether you are a beta tester or a tech nerd, these are the 11 new iOS 26 beta 4 features and changes that you need to know.
1. Dynamic Wallpapers
iOS 26 wallpapers now dynamically shift colors throughout the day to reflect the time and environment. These subtle transitions enhance the immersive experience of using your iPhone, making the interface feel more alive and responsive.
2. Liquid Glass Refinements
Apple has further polished the Liquid Glass design introduced in previous betas. The effect is now more translucent compared to Beta 3, especially noticeable in menu bars within apps like Photos, Music, and the App Store. On the Lock Screen, scrolling through notifications now slightly darkens the background, improving text legibility.
3. Camera App Tweaks
The Camera app sees a smooth interaction overhaul. Now, the capture button moves fluidly with your swipes—unlike before, where it remained static. Additionally, the Camera app icon on the Home Screen has received a subtle design refresh to match the evolving iOS 26 aesthetic.
4. New CarPlay Wallpapers
A set of new CarPlay wallpapers has been added, available in six shades—blue, green, purple, gray, red, and brown. These wallpapers are available in both light and dark mode variants, aligning with iOS 26’s design language. Previous CarPlay wallpapers have been removed.
5. Face ID & Passcode UI Update
The Face ID & Passcode section in the Settings app has a refreshed layout with clearer instructions. When accessed, users are prompted with improved text reminding them to input the correct device passcode.
6. Passwords App Improvements
A new “Allow Contacting Websites” toggle has been added in the Passwords app’s Settings (Settings app > Apps > Passwords). When enabled, this feature helps autofill icons and names for supported websites. It can even detect passkey support, making password management smarter and more visual.
7. Call Screening Enhancements
Apple has added granular control under “Screen Unknown Callers” in the Settings app > Apps > Phone section. You can now choose between disabling the feature, asking callers to state their purpose, or automatically silencing unknown calls and sending them to voicemail.
8. Mail App Icon Refinement
The Mail app icon has been slightly updated. Though minor, the redesign reflects Apple’s broader UI refinement approach in iOS 26, aligning it better with the overall visual direction.
9. Weather App Location Features
The Weather app now includes a toggle for “Significant Locations” inside the Settings app on iPhone > Apps > Weather. When turned on, it allows the app to provide more accurate weather updates for frequently visited locations, using location intelligence.
10. “Reduce Loud Sounds” Option
The previous “Late Night Mode” in the Settings app > Sounds & Haptics section has been renamed to “Reduce Loud Sounds.” It now comes with a clearer explanation, helping users understand that it softens harsh audio peaks while maintaining quieter sound clarity.
11. Apple Intelligence Notification Summaries Return
Apple has reintroduced Notification Summaries for News and Entertainment apps—now powered by improved Apple Intelligence. These AI-generated summaries appear in italics with the label “Summarized by Apple Intelligence.
There you have it! Now that you’ve unlocked the hidden tweaks, take them for a run and share your thoughts.
