Apple IOS 26 Beta 4 Update Released with Liquid Glass Interface and Notification Summaries for News

Apple has unveiled the iOS 26 Beta 4 update for iPhones, initially accessible to developers and beta testers. This update introduces significant changes compared to its predecessor released earlier in the month. Notably, Apple's Liquid Glass user interface design, featuring glass-like elements, has been reintroduced. Additionally, notification summaries for News & Entertainment have been restored after being disabled earlier this year.

The Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 marked the debut of Liquid Glass as Apple's new design language. This design aims to align the UI of Apple devices with the Vision Pro headset's glass-like features, offering a more unified experience. However, its launch received mixed reactions; some praised it as a new era for Apple, while others humorously likened it to Windows Vista.

iOS 26 Beta 4 Update: Key Features

Despite initial criticism on social media, Apple responded by adjusting the glass reflections in the third iOS 26 beta update earlier this month. The reflections were toned down for better legibility. However, with iOS 26 Beta 4, Apple has reverted these changes. The OS now mirrors the reflection levels of the second beta update but includes an enhancement that darkens the Notification Centre background slightly for improved readability.

Another notable change is the restoration of Notification Summaries. In January, Apple had disabled this feature due to inaccurate summaries generated by Apple Intelligence in the News & Entertainment category. Users can now once again access concise summaries of key details.

Additional Tweaks and Features

The Camera app has undergone minor visual adjustments and now features a new splash screen detailing UI changes within the app. Furthermore, Call Screening options have been updated. Users can choose to turn off Call Screening entirely or ask unknown callers their reason for calling. There is also an option to automatically silence calls from unknown numbers.

In addition to these updates, Apple has released iOS 18.6 RC Beta alongside macOS 15.6 RC and other updates. These releases are part of Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience across its platforms.

Apple's latest iOS update reflects its commitment to refining user interfaces and addressing feedback from users and developers alike. By reintroducing features like Liquid Glass and Notification Summaries while making subtle improvements elsewhere, Apple continues to evolve its operating systems in response to user needs.