iOS Beta Version 4 of 26 Unveiled, Highlighting Significant Updates
In a significant update for iOS 26, the latest beta version (4) has re-enabled AI-powered notification summaries for news and entertainment apps. This feature, which was previously paused, aims to deliver a condensed and relevant update from these categories, helping users stay informed while reducing clutter.
Upon installing the beta, users are greeted with a series of welcome screens detailing changes to major apps. The update also includes other UI tweaks, such as improvements to the Liquid Glass design, dynamic wallpapers, and refinements in core apps like Messages and Camera.
The return of AI-driven notification summaries is one of the key highlights of this update. Apple had previously disabled the notifications summary feature in iOS 18 due to inaccurate or misleading summaries. However, with the improvements made in iOS 26, the feature is now back, and users can choose to apply it to notifications from Communications & Social apps, as well as apps more generally.
The notification shade in iOS 26 beta 4 now sports a darker tint for improved readability. Additionally, users can now control call screening options within the Settings menu, allowing them to disable the feature, stop unknown callers from ringing, or use a new feature where Siri will ask the caller what they're ringing for.
As we approach the public release of iOS 26, expected later in July 2025, it's likely that further changes will be discovered in the current beta version. For up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews on iOS 26 and other tech-related topics, follow Tom's Guide on Google News.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that the iPhone Notes app has a secret messaging feature, and instructions on how to use it can be found elsewhere. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 battery life results have been published in a separate article. Stay tuned for more updates on iOS 26!
Technology improvements are evident in the latest iOS 26 beta version, as Apple has re-enabled AI-powered notification summaries for news and entertainment apps. This feature, initially halted due to inaccuracies in iOS 18, has been refined and is now back, offering users the option to apply it to notifications from various apps, including Communications & Social apps.
