Apple is gearing up to release its next major iPhone software update, iOS 26.4, in the coming weeks. This update is poised to introduce the initial phase of long-awaited Siri enhancements, as reported by Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman. It will also incorporate early Apple Intelligence features that were previously announced at WWDC 2024 but saw delays. Beyond Siri, the release aims to improve overall performance and system stability, with hints of exciting new emoji additions as well.
Upcoming iOS 26.4 Beta: What to Expect from Siri
According to Gurman’s newsletter, Apple plans to launch the first developer beta for iOS 26.4 during the week of February 23. Following this, we can anticipate further beta builds in late February or early March, with the stable public release likely arriving by the end of March. While Apple typically keeps exact release dates for minor updates under wraps, this timeline offers a clear indication for eager users.
The iOS 26.4 update is expected to unveil key Siri improvements initially slated for Apple Intelligence. These include advanced personal context, allowing Siri to retrieve information from your messages, emails, and notes more effectively. Users can also look forward to on-screen awareness, meaning Siri will understand what’s visible on your screen, alongside expanded in-app and cross-app controls for a more integrated experience.
Gurman further notes that Apple is dedicating significant effort this year to addressing bugs and boosting the performance of its operating systems, with more substantial software changes planned for iOS 27. Additionally, iOS 26.4 is rumored to introduce a collection of new emojis, potentially including an apple core, a ‘fight cloud,’ and a treasure chest. Apple has yet to officially confirm these details.
Apple recently confirmed its collaboration with Google, planning to integrate Gemini as an optional AI solution to augment Siri’s new capabilities, working in tandem with Apple’s own proprietary models. This partnership aims to enable Siri to handle more complex, chatbot-style requests. Apple remains committed to user privacy, emphasizing that much of this processing will occur directly on the device or via its secure Private Cloud Compute system.