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By Staff Writer
Apple continues its tradition of regular software updates with the launch of iOS 18.4 beta 4 for developers. Alongside this update, the company has also released beta versions for iPadOS 18.4, tvOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, watchOS 11.4, and macOS 15.4. This latest beta brings refinements, bug fixes, and some notable new features to enhance user experience.
What’s New in iOS 18.4 Beta 4?
Apple Intelligence Enhancements
- Expanded Language Support: Apple Intelligence now supports additional languages, including Portuguese (Brazil), Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish, and localized English for India and Singapore.
- Image Playground Update: A new “Sketch” style has been added to the Image Playground, complementing existing Animation and Illustration styles.
iOS 18 Beta 8 is here with much refinement and some enhancements. Here is everything new.
Full video here: https://t.co/6lPfr1tw5j pic.twitter.com/lJThMfcoUQ
— Aaron Zollo (@zollotech) August 28, 2024
Apple News+ Improvements
- New Food Section: Apple News+ now includes a dedicated section for food-related content. Subscribers can access recipes, healthy eating tips, restaurant recommendations, and more. (This feature is not yet available in Portugal.)
Control Center Upgrades
- Ambient Music Controls: Users can now customize ambient music settings directly from the Control Center, with new options such as Relaxation, Productivity, Sleep, and Well-being.
Visual Intelligence Features
- Quick Access: The Visual Intelligence feature can now be activated using the action button or through the Control Center on compatible iPhones, making it easier for users to access advanced visual recognition capabilities.
Additional System Improvements
- Genmoji Interface Refinements: The Genmoji interface has been updated, now displaying the “Genmoji” label on the keyboard for better user clarity.
- Matter Smart Home Integration: The Home app now supports robotic vacuum cleaners compatible with the Matter smart home standard, improving connectivity and automation capabilities.
Performance Enhancements and Bug Fixes
In addition to new features, iOS 18.4 beta 4 addresses various bugs and enhances overall system performance. These refinements aim to improve stability and user experience ahead of the official release, which is expected in April.
With these updates, Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, ensuring that its devices remain powerful, user-friendly, and feature-rich. Developers and beta testers can now explore these enhancements while the broader user base eagerly awaits the final version of iOS 18.4.

Staff Writers at Open Chronicle produce in-depth, field-informed reporting on defense, diplomacy, cultural transformation, and global affairs. Known for clarity, accuracy, and analytical depth, they connect breaking developments to broader historical and strategic contexts. In addition to frontline journalism, Staff Writers also contribute to the Open Chronicle Encyclopedia, crafting authoritative entries that preserve critical knowledge and enrich public understanding.