Apple has released Public Beta 4 for watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26, corresponding to Developer Beta 7. The updates are available through the Software Update section on compatible devices for users enrolled in the Beta Software Program. These new builds continue Apple’s late cycle testing process and focus on performance improvements and bug fixes.
For watchOS 26, this release does not introduce any new user facing features. Instead, it refines existing functionality and addresses stability issues from earlier betas. Apple’s approach in recent watchOS betas has been to polish core features, optimize battery usage, and prepare the operating system for broader availability. Testers have reported improved responsiveness and fewer glitches during everyday use, which is consistent with Apple’s pattern of late beta releases.
On tvOS 26, the situation is similar. Public Beta 4 provides behind the scenes improvements and small adjustments aimed at smoothing the Apple TV experience. No new interface changes or apps have been added in this build. Apple has historically kept tvOS updates focused on consistency and performance, and this release follows that pattern. Users testing the beta should notice more stability, though visible changes are minimal at this stage.
For visionOS 26, Apple continues to refine the software experience for Vision Pro. Public Beta 4 is largely dedicated to stability and system reliability. While major features for spatial widgets, collaboration, and enhanced Personas avatars were introduced earlier in the cycle, this release centers on ensuring that those features work more smoothly. Performance across multitasking and app switching has also been noted as more fluid by testers. Apple is expected to keep visionOS updates closely aligned with its hardware roadmap, and late betas are aimed at preparing the platform for everyday use.
These updates are typical of the beta process as Apple gets closer to the public release in the fall. Earlier betas introduce the larger feature set, while later ones like Public Beta 4 refine the user experience and resolve issues. Users running these betas should still be prepared for occasional bugs or compatibility problems, but the builds are considered more stable than those from the start of the cycle.
As always, Apple advises that beta software is best installed on secondary devices, as bugs may still cause unexpected behavior. Backing up devices before updating is recommended, especially for testers who rely on their Apple Watch, Apple TV, or Vision Pro for daily use.
