Apple has rolled out iOS 26.4 beta 2 for iPhone, continuing its testing cycle ahead of a broader public release. The latest developer beta builds on changes introduced earlier in the iOS 26.4 cycle, with updates spanning Apple Music, messaging, security settings, and CarPlay functionality. As with most mid-cycle updates, the focus appears to be incremental refinement rather than sweeping interface changes, though a few additions stand out.
One of the most visible updates in iOS 26.4 centers on Apple Music. The app introduces redesigned album and playlist views that streamline navigation and reorganize track listings. The layout adjustments emphasize larger artwork and clearer categorization, aligning with Apple’s ongoing efforts to simplify the music browsing experience on iPhone. While the visual refresh is subtle, it reflects a continued shift toward content-forward design.
iOS 26.4 also introduces an AI-driven feature in Apple Music called Playlist Playground. The tool is designed to generate playlists based on user prompts or listening habits. AI-powered playlist creation has become a competitive area among streaming services, and Apple’s implementation appears aimed at matching that trend. How well it performs in real-world use will likely determine whether it becomes a central feature or remains an optional experiment.
Beyond music, iOS 26.4 beta 2 adds per-device Personal Hotspot data usage reports. This change gives users clearer visibility into how much data each connected device consumes, addressing a long-standing limitation in hotspot management. For users on capped data plans, this level of transparency could be more practical than the higher-profile AI additions.
Messaging updates are also under development. Apple is reportedly testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging within iOS 26.4, a move that would expand secure communication options beyond iMessage. If implemented widely, encrypted RCS could improve cross-platform messaging privacy while maintaining compatibility with Android devices. However, the feature remains in testing and may not be finalized in the current release cycle.
Security adjustments continue as well. Stolen Device Detection is now enabled by default in iOS 26.4, reinforcing Apple’s broader emphasis on theft protection and account security. Meanwhile, progress on CarPlay video support suggests Apple is expanding in-car media capabilities, though availability will depend on regional regulations and vehicle compatibility.
As with any beta release, iOS 26.4 beta 2 primarily targets developers and testers. Additional changes may surface before the final version is made public. Users interested in new Apple Music features, enhanced hotspot controls, and expanded messaging security will likely want to monitor the iOS 26.4 release timeline closely as testing continues.
