iOS 26.4 is coming: Here are the rumored new features

iOS 26.4 is coming: Here are the rumored new features

February 5, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Technology

Apple’s iOS 26.4: A Deep Dive into the Future of iPhone Software

Apple is gearing up to release iOS 26.4, with the first beta expected to arrive later this month. While the iOS 26.3 RC debuted yesterday, attention is already turning to the upcoming features slated for iOS 26.4. This update promises significant changes, particularly around Siri and user experience, building on groundwork laid in previous releases.

Siri’s AI Revolution: Powered by Gemini

After a delay, Apple is finally poised to unveil a revamped Siri in iOS 26.4. This isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a fundamental shift in how Siri operates, now powered by Google’s Gemini technology. This partnership marks a significant move for Apple, integrating a leading AI model to enhance Siri’s capabilities.

The revamp aims to deliver three key user-facing improvements: personal context knowledge, on-screen awareness, and hundreds of new in-app and cross-app actions. These changes suggest a more intuitive and versatile Siri experience, capable of understanding user needs within the context of their current activity.

Pro Tip: While iOS 26.4 is bringing substantial Siri improvements, further enhancements, including a chatbot-style interface and visual overhaul, are anticipated in iOS 27.

New Emoji Arriving with iOS 26.4

Apple consistently updates its emoji library, and iOS 26.4 is expected to add nine new emoji approved by the Unicode Consortium. These include the Apple Core, Ballet Dancers, Distorted Face, Fight Cloud, Hairy Creature, Landslide, Orca, Trombone, and Treasure Chest. These additions reflect Apple’s commitment to providing a diverse and expressive communication experience.

Enhancements to Existing Apps: Freeform and Apple TV

iOS 26.4 isn’t solely focused on major overhauls. Improvements are also coming to existing apps. Freeform, a flexible digital canvas, will gain the ability to create folders, enhancing organization within the app. This builds on recent additions like tables, making Freeform an even more powerful creative tool.

The Apple TV app may also receive a “Sports Tier,” though the specifics remain unclear. This could be related to the increasing availability of sports content, including free access to F1 races and MLS matches for Apple TV subscribers.

Streamlined Autofill and Security Improvements

Apple Wallet is set to become even more convenient with iOS 26.4. The update will allow users to add credit cards to AutoFill within third-party apps, streamlining the checkout process.

Behind the scenes, Apple is also implementing a new validation system to verify device integrity before allowing access to Apple ID and iCloud. This aims to protect users from unauthorized access, potentially locking out devices that have been jailbroken or modified.

What’s Next for iOS?

iOS 26.4 represents a significant step forward, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence. The integration of Gemini-powered Siri signals Apple’s commitment to staying competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The update also demonstrates a focus on refining existing features and enhancing user convenience.

FAQ

  • When will the first iOS 26.4 beta be released? The first beta is expected to arrive later this month, February 2026.
  • What is Gemini’s role in the new Siri? Gemini, developed by Google, will power the underlying AI infrastructure of the revamped Siri.
  • How many new emoji are coming in iOS 26.4? Nine new emoji will be added to the iOS 26.4 update.
  • What is the “Sports Tier” in the Apple TV app? The purpose of the “Sports Tier” is currently unknown, but it may relate to the growing amount of sports content available in the Apple TV app.

Stay tuned for further updates as the iOS 26.4 beta is released and more details emerge.