Apple’s iOS 18.4 Release Candidate is now rolling out to beta testers, and it introduces a subtle but powerful feature: Priority Notifications. The new setting gives users more control over how and when they’re alerted, particularly for time-sensitive updates. While the rest of the update focuses on bug fixes and under-the-hood performance tweaks, this small addition could have a big impact on how users manage their day-to-day interruptions.

iOS 18.4 introduces a priority notification setting

The standout addition in iOS 18.4 is the new Priority Notification toggle found under the Focus settings. This allows certain apps to override Do Not Disturb or Focus Modes to deliver critical alerts. Think package delivery updates, ride-share arrivals, or urgent reminders. Instead of muting everything, iOS now gives users a way to allow high-priority alerts through without opening the floodgates to every notification.

Apple: more granular control for focus modes

Focus Modes were first introduced to reduce digital distractions, but they haven’t always balanced well with the need for urgent information. The new setting adds a much-needed middle ground. It doesn’t require users to constantly whitelist or manage apps—they can simply flag the most essential ones for Priority Notification behavior. It’s a small usability win that brings more flexibility to Apple’s productivity tools.

iOS 18.4 also includes key fixes and updates

Beyond Priority Notifications, iOS 18.4 includes a handful of system improvements:

• 📱 Battery performance tuning – Improved power efficiency for certain iPhone models during high-load tasks.
• 🛠️ Accessibility enhancements – Better VoiceOver performance and improved navigation for users with visual impairments.
• 📶 Connectivity improvements – Fixes for occasional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection drops.

While these aren’t flashy features, they enhance stability and help round out the update for everyday users.

What comes next for Apple iOS 18

The Release Candidate signals that iOS 18.4 is nearly ready for a public rollout. Assuming no major bugs are found, the full release is expected within days. This version doesn’t reinvent the OS, but it fine-tunes the experience in meaningful ways—especially for users who depend on their phones for real-time updates without unnecessary distractions.

Small changes, big impact

iOS 18.4 might not grab headlines, but the new notification tools are the kind of quality-of-life tweaks that improve how people use their devices every day. By putting smarter controls in users’ hands, Apple is making it easier to stay focused—without missing what matters.