Apple has released iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 to developers, marking the start of the next testing cycle just days after iPadOS 26.3 went live for all users. This initial developer beta is intended for testing app compatibility, exploring new APIs, and identifying system-level changes before the public beta becomes available. Apple typically expands access after developers have had a chance to work with the update.
The iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 release is considered an early cycle build, which means major user-facing features are not fully visible yet. Developers can expect incremental updates over the coming weeks. The focus of this beta appears to be under-the-hood improvements, performance optimizations, and small interface tweaks. Early reports indicate minor UI adjustments, nine new emoji, and the potential for Apple Intelligence enhancements, though the more significant Siri updates may be delayed until iPadOS 26.5 or even iPadOS 27.
To install iPadOS 26.4 beta 1, back up your iPad first, as beta software can introduce instability or faster battery drain. Navigate to Settings, then General, Software Update, and select Beta Updates. From there, choose iPadOS 26 Developer Beta, return to the previous screen, and tap Download and Install. Make sure your Apple ID is enrolled in the developer program if the option does not appear.
Developers testing iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 should monitor performance and stability changes closely. Enterprise and banking apps may require early testing, as betas can trigger login issues or block security checks. RCS end-to-end encryption is now available for testing within Messages, though it is not yet ready for public release or cross-platform use. Other notable additions in this beta include Memory Integrity Enforcement for apps, which enhances memory safety, and improvements to SwiftUI and StoreKit for developers building on the platform. Some known issues remain, such as Reality Composer export limitations and external media mounting challenges, with temporary workarounds provided.
For now, iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 is primarily a developer-focused release. Observing early performance, battery behavior, and minor interface changes will help prepare apps and workflows for the wider public beta release expected in the coming weeks. Any Siri or Apple Intelligence updates may appear incrementally, so testers should look for small feature flags and refinements in future beta builds.
