Latest news with #Beta4
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Apple Re-Released iOS 26 Beta 4: Here's What Changed!
Apple has officially re-released iOS 26 Beta 4, aligning its build number and features with the iOS 26 Public Beta 1. Identified by build number 23A5297M, this update focuses on addressing bugs, enhancing performance, and introducing minor feature refinements. The re-release also includes updates for iPadOS 26 and the AirPods public betas, offering a more polished experience for both developers and public beta testers. This iteration reflects Apple's ongoing commitment to improving the user experience during the beta testing phase. The video below from Zollotech gives us more details on this re-released version of iOS 26 beta 4. Watch this video on YouTube. Key Updates and Fixes The re-release of iOS 26 Beta 4 addresses several issues identified in earlier beta versions, aiming to enhance system stability and usability. Below are the key fixes included in this update: Performance Optimization: System lag has been significantly reduced, making sure smoother navigation across apps, menus, and multitasking environments. System lag has been significantly reduced, making sure smoother navigation across apps, menus, and multitasking environments. Mail App Fixes: Persistent display issues, such as the unread filter visibility, have been resolved, improving functionality for users who rely on email for daily communication. Persistent display issues, such as the unread filter visibility, have been resolved, improving functionality for users who rely on email for daily communication. Battery Life Improvements: Incremental enhancements have been made to battery performance, though further optimization is expected in future updates. These fixes are particularly beneficial for users who rely on the beta for daily tasks, providing a more seamless and reliable experience. Developers and testers can now explore the platform with fewer interruptions caused by system instability. New Features to Explore While the primary focus of this release is on stability and performance, iOS 26 Beta 4 introduces subtle yet impactful features designed to enhance user customization and interactivity. These additions reflect Apple's attention to detail and its efforts to refine the user experience: Dynamic Wallpapers: A selection of new customizable wallpapers has been introduced, offering visually appealing options for both iOS devices and CarPlay interfaces. A selection of new customizable wallpapers has been introduced, offering visually appealing options for both iOS devices and CarPlay interfaces. Safari Haptic Feedback: Downloading files in Safari now triggers haptic feedback, providing a tactile response that enhances user interaction and awareness. Downloading files in Safari now triggers haptic feedback, providing a tactile response that enhances user interaction and awareness. Podcast Playback Enhancements: Users can now enjoy adjustable playback speeds and improved dialogue clarity, catering to diverse listening preferences and making podcasts more accessible. These features, though subtle, demonstrate Apple's commitment to refining the overall user experience, even in the early stages of software development. Performance Enhancements Benchmark tests conducted on iOS 26 Beta 4 reveal noticeable improvements in system performance. These enhancements are particularly evident in the following areas: CPU Performance: Faster app launches and smoother multitasking have been observed, making the system more responsive for everyday use. Faster app launches and smoother multitasking have been observed, making the system more responsive for everyday use. Battery Optimization: While not yet at its peak, battery life has been improved compared to earlier beta versions, offering extended usage for resource-intensive applications. These performance gains are especially valuable for users running the beta on older devices or those testing resource-heavy applications. The improvements ensure a more efficient and enjoyable experience, even during the beta phase. Release Cycle and Recommendations Apple's beta release cycle appears to be accelerating, with updates now expected on a weekly basis. Beta 5 is anticipated in the coming days, and the final version of iOS 26 is projected to launch in mid-September, coinciding with the release of the iPhone 17. This timeline provides a clear roadmap for developers and public beta testers eager to stay informed and prepared. If you are considering testing the beta, here are some recommendations to guide your decision: For Developers: Staying on the beta track is ideal for those seeking early access to new features, tools, and APIs that can enhance app development and testing. Staying on the beta track is ideal for those seeking early access to new features, tools, and APIs that can enhance app development and testing. For Public Beta Users: If stability is your priority, this re-release offers a more reliable platform for daily use while still allowing you to explore new features. If stability is your priority, this re-release offers a more reliable platform for daily use while still allowing you to explore new features. If Issues Arise: Downgrade options remain available, allowing users to revert to a stable iOS version if the beta does not meet their needs. By following these recommendations, users can make informed decisions about whether to participate in the beta program and how to navigate potential challenges. Looking Ahead The iOS 26 Beta 4 Re-Release represents a significant step forward in Apple's iterative development process. By addressing critical bugs, introducing subtle yet meaningful features, and improving overall performance, this update enhances the experience for both developers and public beta testers. With the final release of iOS 26 on the horizon, Apple continues to refine its software ecosystem, setting the stage for the highly anticipated launch of the iPhone 17. This re-release underscores Apple's dedication to delivering a polished and reliable platform, even during the beta testing phase. Enhance your knowledge on iOS 26 Beta by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Source & Image Credit: zollotech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26 Beta 4: New Features & Improvements Explained!
Apple has officially rolled out iPadOS 26 Beta 4, offering a blend of new features, interface refinements, and bug fixes. This latest beta release is designed to enhance the overall user experience while addressing areas that require further development. In the video Below is a detailed overview from Zollotechof the updates and improvements you can expect in this version. Watch this video on YouTube. Refined Interface Design The interface in iPadOS 26 Beta 4 has received several subtle yet impactful updates aimed at improving usability and aesthetics. The 'liquid glass' effect, which provides a polished and translucent appearance across various apps, has been further refined for a more cohesive and modern look. Notifications now dim the background when they appear, making alerts easier to read and less intrusive. Additionally, app icons such as Camera and Maps have undergone minor design tweaks to align with the updated visual language. The Weather app now features a redesigned sidebar, offering a more intuitive navigation experience. These changes collectively contribute to a cleaner and more user-friendly interface. Dynamic Wallpapers for a Personalized Experience Dynamic wallpapers are one of the standout features in this beta release. These wallpapers adapt seamlessly to the time of day or system settings, transitioning between light and dark modes to create a visually engaging experience. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your device but also reflects Apple's commitment to adaptive and user-centric design principles. By integrating dynamic wallpapers, Apple provides users with a simple yet effective way to personalize their devices while maintaining a consistent and polished look. Enhanced Notification Management Notifications have been significantly improved with the introduction of the 'Summarize Notifications' feature. This new functionality allows you to group alerts by priority or time, helping to reduce clutter and streamline your notification center. Customization options enable you to tailor these summaries to your specific preferences, making sure that you only see the most relevant information at a glance. Apple has also included a cautionary note about the potential for misinterpreting summarized headlines, demonstrating its effort to balance functionality with user awareness. This thoughtful approach highlights the company's focus on delivering practical solutions while addressing potential user concerns. App-Specific Improvements Several core apps have received targeted updates in iPadOS 26 Beta 4, enhancing their functionality and usability: Safari: Navigation has been improved with edge swiping, reducing the likelihood of accidental gestures and making browsing more intuitive. Navigation has been improved with edge swiping, reducing the likelihood of accidental gestures and making browsing more intuitive. Files: The new 'Quicklook' feature allows you to preview files without needing to open them in other apps, saving time and improving workflow efficiency. The new 'Quicklook' feature allows you to preview files without needing to open them in other apps, saving time and improving workflow efficiency. Podcasts: Users can now customize settings for individual shows, offering greater control over playback preferences and notification management. These updates are designed to provide users with more control and a smoother experience when interacting with their favorite apps. Improved Caller Handling Managing incoming calls from unknown numbers has become more intuitive with a new feature that requests a reason for the call before your device rings. This addition allows you to make informed decisions about whether to answer, enhancing privacy and reducing interruptions from unsolicited calls. This feature is particularly useful for users who frequently receive calls from unknown numbers and want to minimize disruptions. Gestures and Multitasking Updates Multitasking gestures have been refined in this beta, addressing user feedback and improving overall functionality. The ability to swipe between apps in windowed mode has been restored, making multitasking more seamless and efficient. However, the absence of the Slide-over multitasking feature remains a notable gap for users who rely on this functionality. These updates reflect Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance multitasking capabilities while responding to user needs. While progress has been made, there is still room for further improvement in future releases. Bug Fixes and Remaining Issues Apple has resolved several bugs in iPadOS 26 Beta 4, contributing to a more stable and reliable user experience. Key fixes include: Addressing widget icon inconsistencies that affected the visual coherence of the home screen. Improving contact search functionality, making it easier to locate specific entries in your address book. Despite these improvements, some issues persist. Users may still encounter graphical glitches and performance inconsistencies, particularly with ProMotion's 120Hz refresh rate. While these bugs do not significantly hinder usability, they serve as a reminder that this is a beta release and not yet a finalized product. Battery Life: Incremental Gains Battery optimization has seen slight improvements in Beta 4 compared to its predecessor. Users may notice marginally longer usage times, particularly during light to moderate use. However, further refinements are necessary to achieve optimal battery performance in the final release. These incremental gains suggest that Apple is making progress in this area, albeit at a measured pace. What's Next? As the public beta release approaches, Apple is expected to focus on resolving the remaining bugs and fine-tuning the features introduced in Beta 4. While this beta version offers a glimpse into the future of iPadOS, it is important to remember that beta software is inherently a work in progress. If you are eager to explore the new features, it is advisable to install the beta on a secondary device to avoid potential disruptions on your primary one. Here are more detailed guides and articles that you may find helpful on iPadOS 26 Beta 4. Source & Image Credit: zollotech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
5 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Beta 4: Every HIDDEN Feature You Missed
Apple's iOS 26 Beta 4 introduces a range of updates aimed at improving usability, customization, and overall performance. With features like dynamic wallpapers, redesigned app interfaces, and enhanced system functionality, this beta version refines the operating system while preparing it for its final release. Below is an in-depth look at the standout features and improvements that make iOS 26 Beta 4 a significant update in a new video from iReviews. Watch this video on YouTube. Dynamic Wallpapers: A Personalized Visual Upgrade Dynamic wallpapers in iOS 26 Beta 4 bring a new level of sophistication to device customization. These wallpapers now adapt seamlessly to both light and dark modes, transitioning colors throughout the day to reflect the time and ambiance. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your device but also reinforces Apple's commitment to personalization and user-centric design. By integrating this subtle yet impactful functionality, Apple ensures that your device feels more dynamic and responsive to your environment. Redesigned App Icons: A Modernized Interface Several app icons, including Camera, Maps, Mail, and FaceTime, have been refreshed with a sleek, modern design. For example, the Camera app icon now features a larger lens, hinting at its enhanced functionality and improved user experience. These updates, while subtle, contribute to a cohesive and contemporary interface that aligns with Apple's broader design philosophy. The refreshed icons not only modernize the visual language of iOS but also make navigation more intuitive and visually engaging. Control Center: Enhanced Depth and Interaction The Control Center receives a significant visual upgrade with the introduction of a parallax effect on toggles. This enhancement creates a sense of depth and interactivity, making the interface more engaging and intuitive. The improved design ensures that navigating the Control Center feels smoother and more responsive, enhancing the overall user experience. This update underscores Apple's focus on blending functionality with aesthetics, making sure that even routine interactions feel polished and refined. Files App: Faster Media Access The Files app now allows users to open images directly without being redirected to the Preview app. This seemingly small change has a big impact on workflows, particularly for users who frequently manage media files. By streamlining this process, Apple has made the Files app more efficient and user-friendly, catering to both casual users and professionals who rely on quick access to their files. Camera App: Smoother Transitions and New Features The Camera app introduces several updates designed to improve usability and performance. Mode transitions are now faster and smoother, aided by a liquid glass effect that enhances the visual experience. Additionally, a new splash screen greets users upon opening the app, signaling its refreshed design and functionality. These updates make capturing moments more seamless and enjoyable, reflecting Apple's ongoing efforts to refine core applications. Settings App: Simplified and Intuitive Navigation The Settings app has been updated to improve navigation and usability. A persistent search bar now makes it easier to locate specific options, while the search functionality itself has been refined for greater accuracy. The passcode entry screen has also been redesigned for better clarity, making sure a smoother user experience. Furthermore, the 'Late Night Mode' feature has been renamed 'Reduce Loud Sounds' under Sounds & Haptics, making its purpose clearer and more accessible to users. Weather App: Context-Aware Updates The Weather app now uses significant locations to provide more relevant and location-specific updates. This enhancement ensures that weather data is tailored to your current context, offering a more personalized and accurate experience. By focusing on context-aware functionality, Apple continues to refine the utility of its native apps, making them more responsive to user needs. Passwords App: Streamlined Management A new feature in the Passwords app, 'Allow to Contact Websites,' simplifies password management by allowing the retrieval of icons and names for saved passwords. This addition makes it easier to identify and organize your credentials, improving the overall user experience. By streamlining this process, Apple has made managing passwords more intuitive and efficient, catering to the growing need for secure and accessible digital tools. News App: Summarized Notifications Return Summarized notifications in the News app make a welcome return, offering concise updates on the latest headlines. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to stay informed without being overwhelmed by detailed notifications. By providing bite-sized updates, the News app ensures that users can quickly catch up on important stories without disrupting their workflow. CarPlay Wallpapers: Light and Dark Mode Options CarPlay now supports new light and dark mode wallpapers, aligning with the broader design language of iOS 26. These wallpapers enhance the visual experience for drivers, offering a more cohesive and polished interface. By extending customization options to CarPlay, Apple ensures that its design philosophy is consistent across all devices and platforms. Performance and Battery: Optimized Efficiency Early testing of iOS 26 Beta 4 reveals noticeable improvements in both performance and battery life. These optimizations are particularly beneficial for older devices, making sure a smoother and more efficient user experience. By focusing on system-wide enhancements, Apple demonstrates its commitment to maintaining high performance across its entire device ecosystem. What's Next? Release Schedule Insights The next iteration, iOS 26 Beta 5, is expected to arrive in two weeks, continuing the refinement process. Meanwhile, iOS 18.6 is slated for public release soon, catering to devices no longer supported by iOS 26. These updates highlight Apple's dedication to providing ongoing support and improvements for its diverse user base. Dive deeper into iOS 26 Beta 4 Features with other articles and guides we have written below. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26 Beta 4 Arrives: A Look at the Latest Features
Apple has unveiled iPadOS 26 Beta 4, marking a significant step forward in its software development cycle. This release introduces a combination of stability enhancements, design refinements, and feature updates, signaling the operating system's progression toward its official public release. If you're eager to understand the latest changes and how they might influence your iPad experience, here's a detailed look at the most notable updates. The video below from SlatePad gives us a detailed look at the new features in iPadOS 26 beta 4. Watch this video on YouTube. Improved Stability and Performance With iPadOS 26 Beta 4, Apple has prioritized stability and performance improvements, making this version the most reliable in the beta series to date. Persistent bugs have been addressed, resulting in smoother app transitions and enhanced system responsiveness. Whether you're multitasking, running resource-intensive applications, or simply navigating the interface, you'll notice fewer crashes and a more seamless experience. These updates are particularly beneficial for developers and early adopters, offering a dependable environment for testing and daily use. Refined Visual Design and Transparency Effects Apple continues to refine its design language with subtle yet impactful updates in Beta 4. The transparency effects have been fine-tuned, reintroducing the liquid glass aesthetic across various system components. Apps like Music, Podcasts, Mail, and Settings now feature enhanced translucency in toolbars and sidebars. This update not only improves visual appeal but also ensures that text and icons remain clear and legible against semi-transparent backgrounds. These refinements highlight Apple's commitment to blending aesthetics with functionality, creating a more polished user interface. Notification Summary Returns The long-awaited return of the Notification Summary feature is a standout addition in iPadOS 26 Beta 4. Absent since iPadOS 18.3, this tool consolidates notifications into a single, organized view, making it easier to manage alerts. While still in its beta phase, Apple has included a disclaimer about potential inaccuracies, encouraging users to approach the feature with caution. Customization options in the notification settings allow you to tailor this functionality to suit your workflow, offering a more streamlined way to stay on top of your alerts. Dynamic Wallpaper for Enhanced Personalization A new dynamic wallpaper option adds a layer of personalization to your iPad. This default wallpaper evolves throughout the day, shifting through a range of colors and designs based on the time. While primarily an aesthetic enhancement, this feature underscores Apple's ongoing efforts to make the iPad interface more immersive and customizable. The dynamic wallpaper not only enhances visual engagement but also aligns with the broader theme of creating a more personalized user experience. Expanded Silence Unknown Callers Options The Silence Unknown Callers feature has been expanded in Beta 4, offering greater control over how your device handles calls from unknown numbers. The updated settings now include three distinct options: Never: Allows all calls to come through without restriction. Allows all calls to come through without restriction. Ask Reason for Calling: Prompts unknown callers to state their reason before your device rings, adding an extra layer of screening. Prompts unknown callers to state their reason before your device rings, adding an extra layer of screening. Silence: Sends unknown callers directly to voicemail, minimizing interruptions. These additions provide a more nuanced approach to call filtering, allowing you to manage interruptions effectively while making sure that important calls are not missed. Ongoing Challenges in Multitasking and File Management Despite the advancements in Beta 4, certain limitations persist. Slide-over apps remain restricted, as they cannot yet be enabled in full-screen multitasking. This limitation affects users who rely on advanced multitasking workflows for productivity. Similarly, the eject option in the Files app remains non-functional, leaving file management capabilities unchanged. These omissions highlight areas where further development is needed, particularly for power users seeking more robust multitasking and file-handling features. What These Updates Mean for You iPadOS 26 Beta 4 represents a significant step forward in Apple's software development process. By focusing on stability, design refinements, and usability improvements, this beta version lays the groundwork for a well-rounded operating system. While some features remain incomplete or absent, the updates introduced in Beta 4 demonstrate Apple's dedication to enhancing the iPad experience. Whether you're testing the beta or waiting for the official release, these changes reflect a thoughtful approach to innovation and continuous improvement, making sure that the iPad remains a versatile and user-friendly device. Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on iPadOS 26 Beta 4. Source & Image Credit: SlatePad Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Beta 4: Everything New and Changed
Apple has officially released iOS 26 Beta 4 for developers, introducing a variety of updates designed to enhance design, functionality, and system performance. This release is part of a comprehensive update across Apple's ecosystem, including iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, HomePod version 26, and visionOS 26. Whether you are a developer or a tech enthusiast, this update offers significant improvements worth exploring. The video below from Brandon Butch gives us another look at the new iOS 26 beta 4. Watch this video on YouTube. Liquid Glass Design Returns with Modern Enhancements One of the standout features in iOS 26 Beta 4 is the reintroduction of the 'liquid glass' design, a visual element that harkens back to earlier iOS versions. This design enhances the lock screen with a sleek, glass-like appearance, creating a modern and refined aesthetic. Notifications now dynamically adapt to the tint of your wallpaper, improving readability while maintaining a cohesive visual experience. This update highlights Apple's ongoing commitment to blending functionality with elegant design. Dynamic Wallpapers and Interface Refinements Dynamic wallpapers take center stage in this release, offering a more engaging and personalized visual experience. A new time-based wallpaper adjusts its appearance throughout the day, providing a fresh look as the hours pass. Additionally, 12 new CarPlay wallpapers expand customization options for in-car displays, catering to a broader range of user preferences. Beyond wallpapers, subtle yet impactful interface refinements enhance both usability and aesthetics. Key updates include: Redesigned app icons for Camera and Mail, making sure a consistent and modern design language. An improved toolbar layout in Notes, streamlining functionality for better productivity. Smoother gestures in Messages and Mail, making navigation more intuitive and fluid. Polished animations in settings like Face ID and Passcode, contributing to a more refined user experience. These updates collectively create a cleaner, more cohesive interface that aligns with Apple's design philosophy. Camera and Music App Upgrades The Camera app receives both functional and visual improvements in this beta. A long-standing issue with the mode selection scrolling direction has been resolved, making it easier to switch between camera modes. Additionally, new splash screens guide users through photographic styles and the updated interface, simplifying the onboarding process for new features. In the Music app, the liquid glass effects extend to the interface, making sure visual consistency across the system. The Dolby Atmos auto-mix feature has been fine-tuned, though minor bugs remain. Furthermore, the 'Late Night Mode' has been renamed to 'Reduce Loud Sounds', offering a clearer and more descriptive label for the feature. Expanded Call Screening Options Managing incoming calls becomes more flexible with the introduction of expanded call screening options. Users can now select between 'Never' and 'Silence' modes for handling unknown callers. This feature is particularly useful for minimizing interruptions from spam calls, allowing for a more seamless communication experience. Performance Improvements and Bug Fixes Performance enhancements are a key focus in iOS 26 Beta 4. Devices now exhibit reduced heating, addressing a common issue in earlier beta versions. Battery life has also improved, thanks to underlying bug fixes and optimizations. Notable issues resolved in this release include: Overlapping widget areas on photo wallpapers, making sure proper alignment and usability. Stale data in AI-powered features, improving the accuracy and responsiveness of these tools. These fixes contribute to a smoother, more reliable user experience, making the system feel more polished and efficient. Safari and HomePod Updates Safari receives several updates aimed at improving both aesthetics and functionality. The liquid glass effects now extend to the browser, creating a visually cohesive experience across the system. Additionally, the domain display in the address bar has been refined for better clarity, making it easier to identify websites at a glance. Meanwhile, code within this beta hints at a future HomePod model featuring a screen, signaling Apple's continued innovation in the smart home space. This potential addition could expand the HomePod's capabilities, offering users a more versatile and interactive experience. Release Timeline and Future Expectations The public beta for iOS 26 is expected to launch soon, likely based on Beta 4. Developer Beta 5 is anticipated in early August, with the final release projected for September. This timeline aligns with the expected launch of the iPhone 17, marking a significant milestone for Apple's ecosystem. Developers and early adopters can look forward to exploring these updates as Apple continues to refine its software offerings. What This Means for Users iOS 26 Beta 4 introduces a range of updates that enhance both functionality and design. From the return of liquid glass effects to dynamic wallpapers, expanded call screening options, and performance improvements, this release reflects Apple's focus on delivering a seamless and visually appealing user experience. As the public beta approaches, these changes set the stage for a polished final release later this year, offering a glimpse into the future of iOS. Enhance your knowledge on iOS 26 Beta 4 by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Source & Image Credit: Brandon Butch Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
