Apple releases iOS, iPadOS, macOS 26.4 with a long list of medium-size tweaks
The iOS, iPadOS, and macOS updates patch critical vulnerabilities and add user-requested features like battery management.
Apple has rolled out its 26.4 software updates across all major platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. While the most critical component is a substantial set of security patches addressing vulnerabilities disclosed on Apple's website, this release also introduces several user-facing features absent from last month's quieter update. These include long-requested charging limits for MacBooks to preserve battery health, the return of a compact tab bar view in Safari on macOS and iPadOS, and Stolen Device Protection enabled by default.
Other additions encompass the latest Unicode 17.0 emoji, AI-generated playlists for Apple Music subscribers, new collaboration tools in the Freeform app, and the ability for Family Sharing members to use separate payment methods. Notably, two anticipated features are missing: end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging with Android users remains in testing, and the 'more intelligent Siri' powered by Google's Gemini AI models is still slated for a 2026 release, potentially in iOS 26.x or iOS 27. Apple also issued security updates for older, unsupported devices like the iPhone XS and certain iPad models, ensuring broader protection across its installed base.
- Includes critical security patches for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, detailed on Apple's security website.
- Adds user-controlled charging limits for MacBook batteries and brings back compact Safari tabs.
- Introduces AI-generated Apple Music playlists, Unicode 17.0 emoji, and separate Family Sharing payment methods.
Why It Matters
Essential security update for all Apple users, plus practical features that enhance device longevity and daily usability.