Apple has rolled out the fourth developer beta of iOS 26, its upcoming major software release. This version introduces minor refinements to the Liquid Glass interface and brings back AI-driven news notification summaries, along with several other enhancements.
Apple’s release of iOS 26 developer beta 4 comes as an unexpected twist, considering the public beta typically arrives after beta 3 in previous years. While Apple has confirmed that the public beta is set to launch sometime in July 2025, with just days left in the month, time is running out. The arrival of beta 4 could be a strong indicator that the public version of iOS 26 is just around the corner.
Apple’s iOS 26 update is officially dropping support for older devices, as the new version will only be compatible with iPhone 11 models and newer. iPhone XS and XR users won’t receive the latest features, though Apple will continue to provide them with essential security patches.
Liquid Glass design changes:
One of the standout adjustments in this beta is a reversal in the Liquid Glass design changes introduced in beta 3 — the interface has now reverted to its original look. Another key refinement is seen in the way AI-generated content is presented: summaries are now italicized and clearly tagged with a “Summarised by Apple Intelligence” label, aiming to reduce any potential user confusion. Users can still manage these summaries by opting in or out based on specific content categories, and they can also report any issues directly to Apple.
Camera app gets a slight visual refresh:
The Camera app gets a slight visual refresh, including a new welcome screen that outlines the user interface updates. Apple has also refined the Call Screening function. With the latest improvements, users can now disable Call Screening entirely, request that unknown callers state their purpose, or automatically mute calls from unidentified numbers.
Beyond these changes, beta 4 introduces new onboarding flows. After installing iOS 26, users will be greeted with “Welcome” screens and guided walkthroughs of key enhancements, such as the revamped Camera interface, upgraded Siri capabilities, and AI-powered notification sorting.
