iOS 26.4 changes and features – everything new [Video]

In this new episode of iOS Releasedwe dive deep into what’s new in iOS 26.4 beta 1, with an in-depth look at dozens of new features and changes. For example, we get our first look at setting up Notification Relay for third-party smartwatches and other EU hardware devices, as well as new iCloud.com functionality that brings secure Photos and iCloud Drive searches to the web.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the top five features included with the update, but watch the full video to see everything new, and be sure to subscribe to 9to5Mac on YouTube for more in-depth information.

What’s new in iOS 26.4 beta 1?

Transfer of Notice

iOS 26.4 beta 1 gives us our first look at the setup process for the upcoming notification forwarding feature, which is scheduled to hit EU users later this year. Apple includes an easy onboarding process for compatible Bluetooth devices, such as third-party smartwatches, in the first developer beta 26.4.

Pairing a third-party smartwatch is similar to how users set up the new AirPods. Once iOS 26.4 has found a nearby compatible device, the pairing process can begin. Once the device is paired, you can choose to connect or disconnect the device, send a test notification, and request notification forwarding.

After requesting notification forwarding, a permissions dialog will appear, and users can choose to set notifications to be forwarded to a third-party device. After confirming the setup, users are presented with a screen to select which messages to forward to the device.

The “What notifications do you want to send to this device” dialog will show how many apps have notifications enabled right now, and you can choose to forward them all. Alternatively, you can forward notifications from specific apps to a third-party device.

As of now, this feature is limited to the EU, and Apple notes that you can enable notification forwarding to a single device. This means you wouldn’t have an Apple Watch and a third-party smartwatch receiving notifications at the same time. There are also privacy implications, as third parties may gain access to notifications that even Apple is not aware of.

Video: iOS 26.4 Beta 1 – Everything new

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Enable Search on iCloud.com

A new iCloud feature in iOS 26.4 beta 1 allows users to enable a setting that allows them to search for Photos and iCloud Drive content on iCloud.com. This feature, accessible by navigating to Settings → User → iCloud → iCloud.com, introduces a new option that allows trusted devices to provide search results when using iCloud.com.

Since the feature is still in beta, you’ll need to navigate to the iCloud Beta website to use it. Once there, you’ll see search fields in both the Photos and iCloud Drive sections of the website. When you try to search, you will see a prompt to enable search on your trusted device. After clicking continue, you will see a notification appear on your trusted device to allow search access. You’ll be able to get search results in the iCloud Drive and Photos section of iCloud.com.

Transfer Data Between Browsers

Browser data export and import features in Safari settings have been around since iOS 18.2, but starting with iOS 26.4, Apple makes it easy to move data between your favorite web browsers. Before this update, exporting or importing data was limited to the Files app, but with iOS 26.4, users can import or export data directly from an interactive web browser.

New Ambient music widgets

Since iOS 18.4 we have been able to request the playback of ambient music playlists through the Control Center, but in iOS 26.4 Apple makes this thanks to two new ambient music widgets. The widgets, available in small and medium sizes, enable one-tap playback of Apple’s suggested or custom playlists directly from the iOS home screen.

More evidence for HomePad

As if we needed more smoke, iOS 26.4 includes more clues about Apple’s upcoming HomePad smart home device, including a new one. CompanionSetup an app that can be used to pair a “HomePad” device. The app also includes an exciting new chime that we haven’t heard before. We’ve released it for you to listen to and put it on video.

Folks, that’s just the beginning in terms of new features and changes. Be sure to watch the full video walkthrough to see more updates in iOS 26.4 beta 1.