Apple Releases watchOS 26.4 Public Beta: What’s New for Apple Watch Users
Apple has initiated the watchOS 26.4 beta cycle, with the first developer beta released on February 16, 2026, followed by the public beta on February 17, 2026. This update appears to be a standard mid-cycle release, incorporating minor feature enhancements, backend platform improvements, and the usual stability fixes anticipated before the spring software launch window.
Important Considerations for Beta Testers
Participating in the public beta program means encountering potential issues such as increased battery consumption, unexpected crashes, and application malfunctions on your Apple Watch. Apple advises testing beta software on a secondary device when feasible to mitigate these risks.
Steps to Install watchOS 26.4 Public Beta
To install the watchOS 26.4 public beta, follow these steps:
1. Backup Your iPhone: Ensure your iPhone is backed up, as your Apple Watch data is automatically included in the iPhone backup.
2. Install iOS 26.4 Public Beta on iPhone: The Apple Watch update requires the paired iPhone to be running the corresponding iOS 26.4 public beta.
3. Access the Watch App on iPhone: Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
4. Navigate to Software Update: Go to General > Software Update within the Watch app.
5. Select Beta Updates: Under Beta Updates, choose watchOS 26 Public Beta (terminology may vary by region).
6. Initiate the Update: Place your Apple Watch on its charger, ensure it is connected to Wi-Fi, and proceed with the update installation.
Notable Changes in watchOS 26.4 Public Beta 1
While Apple has not provided a comprehensive list of new features in the public beta announcement, the following updates have been identified:
1. Introduction of New Emoji Set
Consistent with previous watchOS updates, version 26.4 introduces new emoji options. These additions will be accessible in Messages and other applications utilizing the emoji keyboard, ensuring uniformity with the emoji set available on iPhone and reducing instances of missing-character boxes in conversations.
2. Bug Fixes and Performance Enhancements
The initial beta of a point update typically focuses on foundational improvements, with more prominent features introduced in subsequent betas. For watchOS 26.4, users can expect:
– Resolutions for issues in system applications.
– Overall stability enhancements.
– Backend modifications to support developer compatibility.
3. User Interface and Companion App Adjustments
Some user experience changes may originate from the Watch app on the iPhone rather than watchOS itself. Reports indicate interface updates in gallery and management sections during the 26.4 cycle. Users observing alterations in watch face browsing or layout should consider whether these changes stem from the iPhone’s Watch app following the iOS 26.4 beta installation.
Siri and Apple Intelligence Enhancements
Siri improvements are often introduced incrementally in watchOS updates. Currently, significant advancements in Siri capabilities are anticipated in later releases of 2026, beyond the 26.4 update. Therefore, users should not expect substantial Siri transformations in the initial public beta of watchOS 26.4. Any new Siri functionalities are likely to be implemented gradually across subsequent betas and point releases.
Compatibility Information
watchOS 26 is compatible with recent Apple Watch models and necessitates a paired iPhone running iOS 26. Devices unable to upgrade to watchOS 26 will not support the 26.4 update.
Final Thoughts
Users who install the watchOS 26.4 public beta are encouraged to share their experiences, particularly regarding battery performance, application stability, and any new Siri behaviors. Such feedback is invaluable for other users considering the beta and contributes to the refinement of the final release.
