Apple may roll out the first beta of its upcoming iPhone software update, iOS 26.4, later this month. According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the update will begin Apple’s long-awaited Siri improvements. These changes form part of Apple’s wider Apple Intelligence strategy.
Apple announced several of these features at WWDC 2024 but delayed their release. Alongside Siri updates, iOS 26.4 will likely improve performance and system stability. The update may also include new emoji.
Expected iOS 26.4 Beta Release Timeline
Gurman reports that Apple could release the first developer beta of iOS 26.4 during the week starting February 23. If Apple follows this plan, more beta versions may arrive in late February or early March.
Based on this schedule, Apple could launch the final stable update by the end of March. However, Apple usually confirms release dates only for major software versions.
Siri Changes Coming With iOS 26.4
The upcoming update may introduce early features from the Siri overhaul under Apple Intelligence. Siri could gain better personal context awareness. This would help it search information across messages, emails, and notes more effectively.
Apple may also improve Siri’s on-screen awareness. In addition, users can expect stronger control within apps and between different apps.
Apple’s Focus on Performance and Stability
Gurman says Apple plans to focus heavily on bug fixes this year. The company also wants to improve overall system performance across its operating systems. Apple has reserved larger platform-level changes for iOS 27.
New Emoji and AI Integration
iOS 26.4 may bring new emoji as well. Leaks suggest additions such as an apple core, a fight cloud, and a treasure chest. Apple has not confirmed these details yet.
Apple has also confirmed plans to integrate Gemini as an additional AI option for Siri. Gemini will work alongside Apple’s in-house AI models. This integration should allow Siri to handle more advanced, chatbot-style requests.
At the same time, Apple will continue to prioritize user privacy. Most processing will still happen on-device or through Apple’s Private Cloud Compute system.