Apple is already working on iOS 26.4, even though the update will not arrive until early 2026. Devices running the software have visited various websites, showing that internal testing is underway.
The iOS 26 release cycle is drawing attention after Apple delayed improvements to Apple Intelligence and Siri. These features are expected to be significant, so early development makes sense.
Possible Features and Timeline
While Apple has not shared official details, industry watchers expect a few standout updates. iOS 26.4 may include the new emoji 17 set, finalized on September 9, 2025. That date also aligns with the rumored iPhone 17 launch. Apple could release these emoji in iOS 26.4 to encourage faster adoption.
A major focus could be a more advanced Siri powered by Apple’s in-house large language model. This new Siri will provide smarter, more contextual responses and run in the background. Pairing AI upgrades with fun, visible features like emoji could make the update more appealing to everyday users.
Strategic Implications
Apple’s early push on iOS 26.4 matches reports of progress in robotics and smart home projects. The timing suggests that the company is aligning software updates with broader product plans.
By starting development early, Apple can deliver a smoother, more polished release. Combining AI improvements with user-friendly additions could give users strong reasons to upgrade quickly once the update goes live.
