iOS 26.4 Beta 4: Apple Unveils New Emoji, Accessibility Updates, and More

Apple is pushing forward with the iOS 26.4 beta testing phase, rolling out the fourth beta version to developers and public beta testers. As the company refines this incremental update, the latest build introduces a handful of new emoji characters, accessibility tweaks, and confirms the removal of RCS encrypted messaging from this release. Let’s dive into everything new in iOS 26.4 beta 4.

New Emoji Characters Arrive in iOS 26.4

One of the most anticipated additions in this beta is a fresh set of emoji characters. Apple has expanded its emoji library with expressive and quirky new options, including:

• Trombone – perfect for music lovers and band geeks
• Treasure chest – for adventurers and gamers
• Distorted face – a new way to express confusion or distortion
• Hairy creature – a mysterious and fun character
• Fight cloud – classic comic-style action symbol
• Orca – the majestic killer whale
• Landslide – for dramatic natural event reactions

In addition, Apple has introduced new skin tone modifiers for people wrestling and dancers with bunny ears, plus a gender-neutral option for the ballet dancer emoji. These updates continue Apple’s push toward inclusivity and richer expression in digital communication.

Accessibility Enhancement: “Reduce Bright Effects”

Apple has renamed and refined an important accessibility feature. Previously known as “Reduce Highlighting Effects,” it’s now called “Reduce Bright Effects”. The company has also clarified its purpose: to minimize highlighting and flashing when interacting with onscreen elements like buttons or the keyboard. This is a welcome change for users sensitive to bright flashes or intense visual stimuli, improving comfort and usability across iOS devices.

RCS Encrypted Messaging Removed from iOS 26.4

In a notable shift, Apple has removed the RCS (Rich Communication Services) end-to-end encryption beta from the fourth beta of iOS 26.4. The feature had been tested in the previous three betas but will not launch in this update. Apple previously confirmed that full RCS encryption between iPhone and Android devices would arrive in a future iOS update, not 26.4. This means that while iMessage conversations remain encrypted, the enhanced Android-to-iPhone encryption will have to wait a bit longer.

New Device Support

iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 beta 4 mark the first time these updates are available for installation on the upcoming iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air. This signals Apple’s preparation for the next wave of hardware releases, ensuring smooth software integration from day one.

More Features to Explore

For a complete rundown of all features found in prior betas, Apple’s iOS 26.4 feature guide offers a comprehensive list.

Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues refining iOS 26.4 before its public release.

,