Expanded cross-platform RCS testing, new accessibility controls and App Store refinements headline the update
Apple has released iOS 26.4 developer beta 2 for eligible iPhones, introducing expanded RCS encryption testing, new accessibility controls and subtle interface refinements across native apps.
According to 9To5Mac and MacRumors, the update builds on last week’s beta with broader messaging tests and design adjustments aimed at improving usability.
Here’s what’s new.
Expanded RCS end-to-end encryption testing
The headline change is broader RCS encryption testing.
Last week’s beta enabled testing of encrypted RCS messaging between iPhones. With beta 2, Apple is extending testing to Apple-to-Android communication.
Key points:
- End-to-end encryption is still in testing
- Not available to customers yet
- Will ship in a future iOS release
If rolled out widely, encrypted RCS could significantly narrow the messaging gap between iMessage and Android platforms.
New accessibility control
Apple has added a new toggle under:
Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size
The option, called “Reduce Highlighting Effects,” minimizes visual emphasis around buttons and sliders.
The goal:
- Simplify the interface
- Reduce visual intensity
- Improve comfort for sensitive users
It’s a small tweak, but one aligned with Apple’s steady push toward deeper accessibility customization.
UI refinements in Dark Mode and App Store
Beta 2 includes minor design updates.
- In Dark Mode, Control Center menu popups now feature darker backgrounds
- The Account Hub in the App Store has subtle layout changes
- The “Apple Account” label in App Store and Apple Music is now left-aligned with a rainbow logo, matching Settings
Apple has also reworked navigation in its storefront apps.
The Search bar now appears at the top of the Search tab in the App Store and has been integrated into the bottom navigation bar. The same layout changes are now reflected in the Games app.
Playlist Playground remains US-only
Apple Music’s Playlist Playground continues in beta.
The feature lets users:
- Enter a mood, theme or idea
- Generate curated song suggestions
- Create a 25-song playlist with a custom title
For now, it remains limited to the United States, with no rollout timeline for Europe or other regions.
Eligible devices
iOS 26.4 developer beta 2 is available for:
- iPhone 17 series
- iPhone 16 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
How to install
To update:
- Enroll via the Apple Developer website
- Ensure your iPhone is signed in with the same Apple Account
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap Beta Updates and select iOS 26 developer beta
- Install when available
As with all developer betas, users should expect potential bugs and performance issues.
While the update doesn’t introduce sweeping changes, it sharpens Apple’s messaging ambitions and refines everyday usability.
The bigger test will come when encrypted RCS moves from experimental to mainstream.
TL;DR:
Apple’s iOS 26.4 developer beta 2 expands RCS encryption testing to Apple-Android messaging, adds a “Reduce Highlighting Effects” accessibility toggle and introduces minor UI tweaks in the App Store, Games app and Control Center. The update is available to supported iPhones via the developer beta program.
AI summary:
- RCS encryption testing expanded cross-platform
- New “Reduce Highlighting Effects” toggle
- Dark Mode and App Store UI tweaks
- Playlist Playground remains US-only
- Available for iPhone 11 and newer models
