Apple is about to release a new software update, iOS 26.4, which promises to be one of the most significant updates of this cycle. While the focus so far has been only on minor improvements and security, this time it will include several new features that could fundamentally change the daily use of the iPhone.
Changes include Siri, health management, and messaging
As the Geeky Gadgets review points out, one of the biggest changes is expected to come to the voice assistant Siri. The more powerful and “smarter” tool will not only better understand context, but will also be able to perform more complex tasks based on the user’s individual needs.
For the average user, this means fewer manual actions and more automated solutions – from reminders to tasks that previously required multiple apps.
As is already known, the new Siri will be supplemented with artificial intelligence (AI) solutions from Google, which will integrate the Gemini models. However, it is speculated that some of the voice assistant’s functions will not be available until the release of iOS 27 in the fall.
However, the fact itself shows that Apple is finally moving towards AI that actively works in the background, rather than a separate, rarely used function.
The Health app will also be updated, making it even easier for iPhone users to track their health data. This will be done with a more modern, yet simpler to navigate interface.
Finally, the messaging system will get RCS (Rich Communications Services) integration. This means that iPhone messages will become more similar to what most Android phones offer. The ability to edit messages, send them with undo, and use better encryption.
Traditionally, software updates include security enhancements, and iOS 26.4 will be no exception. The new version will have an expanded system that checks the integrity of the device before signing in to an Apple ID. For the user, this means fewer invisible risks and greater confidence in using the device every day.
When to expect iOS 26.4 release
Apple has not officially announced the details yet. Beta testing is expected to begin in mid-February, with features being refined based on user feedback. The final update could appear in late March or early April.
Why iOS 26.4 stands out from other updates
When it comes to Apple’s software changes, it’s clear that the tech company is trying to solve a growing problem. iPhone software has become stable but predictable in recent years. Annual updates no longer provide users with exceptional experiences in their daily use of the smart device.
That’s why iOS 26.4 looks like an ambitious change that could take the iPhone to a new level – if the Siri update doesn’t turn out to be another broken promise.
The fact that it’s going to be in the lead in the AI race with Gemini gives us hope that the voice assistant could actually see significant improvements, with AI not just a standalone feature but an active part of the overall experience.
Apple has lagged far behind the AI giants throughout this time, but it appears to be preparing for faster technology integration this year, including not only changes to Siri but also work on developing a new AI device.
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