Anticipation is building among Apple users as details about the upcoming iOS 26.4 features begin to emerge. Following the relatively minor iOS 26.3 update, this next version is expected to introduce a host of significant and comprehensive improvements. From a completely revamped, AI-powered Siri to a fresh set of emojis, this update is poised to bring exciting new functionalities to iPhone users worldwide.
While Apple is still finalizing the last steps of iOS 26.3, industry insiders predict that the first beta version of iOS 26.4 is just a few weeks away. After the beta testing period concludes, the full public release of iOS 26.4 is expected to roll out sometime in March or April, following Apple’s typical release schedule for major mid-cycle updates.
Exploring the Leaked iOS 26.4 Features
The upcoming update aims to elevate the user experience with a series of crucial innovations. The most prominent of these are the significant enhancements to Siri’s capabilities, the introduction of new emojis to broaden communication options, and various practical improvements designed to streamline daily use. Let’s dive into the primary iOS 26.4 features that have been leaked or rumored so far, providing a comprehensive overview of what iPhone owners can expect.
A Smarter, Personalized Siri Powered by Google Gemini
Perhaps the biggest star of this update will be the completely overhauled Siri. In a landmark move, Apple and Google have announced a collaboration to use the Google Gemini artificial intelligence model to power a more personalized and capable version of Siri. This partnership is set to dramatically increase the digital assistant’s intelligence and utility, marking a major step forward in Apple’s AI strategy.
This more personalized Siri, which was reportedly delayed, is now expected to debut with iOS 26.4. Its new abilities are said to include a much deeper understanding of the user’s personal context, awareness of content currently on the screen, and more granular control over applications. For instance, Apple previously demonstrated at WWDC 2024 how a user could ask Siri about their mother’s flight and lunch reservation plans, with the assistant pulling the information directly from the Mail and Messages apps. This level of contextual awareness has been a long-sought-after feature.
However, it is important to note that some of these advanced functions may not be fully available until the release of iOS 27 later this year. Looking further ahead, reports suggest that Apple is planning to launch a full-fledged Siri chatbot in iOS 27, allowing users to have more natural, ChatGPT-like conversations with the assistant. The integration of Gemini in iOS 26.4 is the foundational step toward this more ambitious future.
Brand New Emojis Arriving on iPhone
As is tradition with major interim updates, iOS 26.4 will introduce a collection of new emojis. Last year, the Unicode Consortium officially approved the characters expected to be included with this update, giving users more ways to express themselves in their digital communications. This continues a predictable and welcome pattern for iPhone users who enjoy personalizing their messages.
Here are the nine new emojis expected to arrive with the update:
- Trombone
- Treasure Chest
- Distorted Face
- Furry Creature (also known as Bigfoot or Sasquatch)
- Fighting Cloud
- Apple Core
- Killer Whale (Orca)
- Ballet Dancers
- Landslide
Apple last added new emojis with the iOS 18.4 update in March of last year. Similarly, iOS 17.4, iOS 16.4, and iOS 15.4 all introduced new characters in previous years, making the timing for these additions a reliable part of Apple’s software update cycle.
Other Notable Leaks and System Improvements
Beyond the headline changes to Siri and the addition of new emojis, strong leaks suggest that iOS 26.4 will also include several other practical enhancements. These quality-of-life improvements focus on security, organization, and integration across Apple’s ecosystem. Here are the other potential features to look out for:
- Passwords App Enhancement: Credit card information stored in Apple’s Passwords app will now be available for AutoFill in third-party applications, not just in Safari. This will make online checkouts faster and more secure across the entire OS.
- Folders in Freeform: Users will gain the ability to create folders within Apple’s free-form brainstorming and note-taking app, Freeform. This will greatly improve organization for users who manage multiple projects or boards.
- Sports Layer for Apple TV: Apple is reportedly working on a new dedicated sports layer for the Apple TV app, although further details on this feature remain scarce. It could provide a more integrated way to follow teams, scores, and live games.
- Enhanced Security: There are indications of a “new verification system to check the integrity of the device before logging into Apple ID and iCloud.” This suggests a deeper, hardware-level security check to prevent unauthorized access.
- Precise Location for AirPods: A new “Precise Outdoor Location” feature is expected to be added to the Find My app specifically for AirPods, likely leveraging the U1 chip for more accurate tracking in open spaces.
Of course, there will likely be additional, unannounced features included in the final release of iOS 26.4. As the beta cycle begins, more details will surely come to light, and we will continue to monitor all developments.
So, what are your thoughts on the new iOS 26.4 features? Share your opinions with us in the comments!
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