Apple has released the fourth developer betas of iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and macOS Tahoe 26.5, continuing its testing cycle for upcoming software updates.
This latest round follows a steady rollout schedule, with the third beta released on April 20, the second on April 13, and the initial versions arriving in late March.
Build updates
The fourth beta introduces new build numbers across platforms:
iOS 26.5 / iPadOS 26.5: 23F5069b
watchOS 26.5: 23T5568a
visionOS 26.5: 23O5468a
tvOS 26.5: 23L5469a
macOS Tahoe 26.5: 25F5068a
HomePod Software 26.5: 23L5469a
Apple also issued release candidate updates for older systems:
macOS 15.7.7 RC 2 (24G718)
macOS 14.8.7 RC 2 (23J518)
Features and changes so far
Earlier beta versions introduced and tested several updates, including:
Notification forwarding features for users in the EU
Continued development of end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging
Early groundwork for potential advertising features in Apple Maps
There were also some unexpected developments, such as Apple Intelligence features appearing in China earlier than planned, while anticipated Siri upgrades have yet to materialize.
Beta warning
As with all developer betas, Apple advises users not to install these updates on primary or mission-critical devices due to the risk of bugs, instability, or data loss. Instead, testing should be done on secondary devices with proper data backups.
For those looking for a more stable experience, public beta versions are typically released shortly after developer builds, offering improved reliability with fewer issues.
Apple may expand its “Ultra” branding, with a foldable iPhone and an OLED MacBook potentially joining the lineup
The company is preparing to expand its Ultra branding beyond watches and Apple Silicon into a new top tier for its most expensive hardware, according to a report published April 27. The plan includes a foldable iPhone and a high-end MacBook positioned above the Pro lineup.
Apple plans to launch products aligned with the upcoming iPhone and Mac cycles through 2027. The naming is obvious as it follows Apple's established pattern, using "Ultra" for its most expensive devices.
Citing a source familiar with Apple's plans, Macworld says the company is developing a foldable iPhone under the iPhone Ultra name and a touchscreen OLED MacBook with the same branding. Apple plans to position both products outside its core lineup, enabling new hardware categories without disrupting the rest of its portfolio.
Apple needs a tier above Pro
Apple has stretched the Pro label across iPhone, iPad, and Mac for years, using it to cover routine upgrades and major hardware changes. Pro works best when products share similar designs and expectations.
Foldables and touchscreen Macs introduce new designs and new tradeoffs that don't fit that model. A foldable iPhone operates differently from a slab-style device and would blur the meaning of Pro.
Ultra provides Apple a clear place for its products. The company can introduce new form factors at higher prices without redefining Pro, maintaining a stable and understandable main lineup.
Fourth developer betas of iOS 26.5 and macOS Tahoe 26.5 released for testing
