Apple has rolled out iOS 18.4 Beta 4 to developers, continuing the refinement of iOS 18.4 ahead of its public release.
This update follows Beta 3 and brings further stability improvements, bug fixes, and minor feature adjustments.
Release Information
iOS 18.4 Beta 4 is available for all devices compatible with iOS 18, including models ranging from the iPhone SE (2nd generation) to the latest iPhone 16 series.
The update is sizable, coming in at approximately 9.56 GB on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The build number for this release is 22E5232a, indicating that Apple is nearing the final stages of testing before a release candidate (RC).
Additionally, the modem firmware has been updated from 1.54.0d2 to 1.54.0d3, which may enhance connectivity and call reliability.
Key Updates
Notification Enhancements
A significant change in iOS 18.4 Beta 4 is the refinement of priority notifications.
Users can now prioritize specific apps within the Notifications settings, ensuring important alerts appear more prominently.
Additionally, a bug that caused notifications to be cut off in the Notification Center has been addressed.
New Ambient Music Option
A notable addition in this beta is the introduction of ambient music options in the Control Center.
This feature allows users to play background music without launching a separate app, making it easier to create a relaxing or focused atmosphere while working or studying.
Back Tap Banner Removal
Apple has removed the Back Tap detection banner, which previously appeared when users activated the Back Tap feature under Accessibility settings.
This banner was initially introduced in earlier betas but has now been completely removed without an option to enable it again.
Apple News+ Food Section Update
In the Apple News+ Food section, a minor UI tweak has been made: a colon now appears next to the "Yield" indicator in recipes, improving clarity in ingredient lists.
Vision Pro App and Apple Arcade Additions
Apple has introduced a new Vision Pro app update, which now includes a banner notification for discovering new content.
Additionally, Apple Arcade will soon receive new titles, including Katamari Damacy and Roller Coaster Tycoon Classic Plus, expanding gaming options for subscribers.
Performance and Bug Fixes
Performance Improvements
Initial reports suggest that micro stutters observed in previous betas have been reduced, particularly on older devices like the iPhone 11.
Scrolling and app transitions appear smoother compared to Beta 3, and overall system responsiveness has improved.
Bug Fixes
- Notification Center Fixes: Users can now scroll to the bottom of their notifications without truncation issues.
- Location Accuracy Toggle Fixed: A bug in Beta 3 that caused the "Improve Location Accuracy" toggle to reset automatically has been resolved.
- CarPlay and Camera Stability: Some users reported CarPlay disconnections and Camera app crashes in Beta 3; these issues appear less frequent in Beta 4 but require further testing.
- Wi-Fi Calling and SwiftUI Fixes: Developers have noted resolved issues related to Wi-Fi calling and SwiftUI system calls.
Battery Life and Thermals
Battery life remains stable compared to Beta 3, with no significant improvements or regressions reported so far.
Thermal performance is also consistent, with devices staying relatively cool after installation.
Editor's Comments
With an "A" build number, iOS 18.4 is likely approaching its final release, with an RC version expected as early as March 25.
The most notable refinements in this beta revolve around notifications and performance optimizations rather than major new features.
Compared to iOS 18.3, iOS 18.4 focuses more on polishing existing features rather than introducing groundbreaking additions.
Given Apple's history, the public release of iOS 18.4 is expected in early April, aligning with Apple's previous announcements.
Looking ahead, attention will soon shift to iOS 19, which is rumored to bring a significant redesign and deeper AI integration.
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