Apple has unveiled iOS 26.4, adding new features such as AI-based music playlist creation, support for video podcasts and encrypted RCS messaging, TechCrunch reported on Feb. 20 (local time).

iOS 26.4 is now available as a public beta, and the final version is expected to be released in March or April.

The most notable change in iOS 26.4 is Apple Music's AI-based "Playlist Playground" feature, TechCrunch reported. Users can create a customised 25-song playlist by entering text prompts such as "upbeat workout mix" or "calm evening" and can also choose cover art.

Apple Music also supports full-screen artwork for albums and playlists, and it has been improved so users can filter concerts by favourite artists by date and genre through a "nearby concerts" section.

The Podcasts app also supports video content, and creators can publish video podcasts using HTTP live streaming (HLS). Users can freely switch between audio and video episodes and can also use horizontal viewing. Video episodes are integrated with personalised recommendations and editorial curation, like audio podcasts. Automatic quality adjustment is included to support smooth playback on WiFi and cellular connections. HLS is supported on platforms such as Triton Omni Studio and SiriusXM, and creators can also insert video ads.

Messaging has also been improved. Apple is testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages in iOS 26.4. It plans to protect messages between iPhone and Android users at the iMessage level in the future. The feature currently applies only between iPhone beta users, and the final version will be released through a later update.

CarPlay has also been updated. Some apps, including the Apple TV app, can now play video in the car while parked, and connectivity with AI services such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini and Anthropic's Claude has been improved. iOS 26.4 does not include a next-generation Siri update. Apple plans to strengthen AI functions for its voice assistant, but they were not reflected in this version.