Apple has released he system update iOS 26.4 (alongside iPadOS 26.4), which includes a series of new features for iPhone and iPad users. At the center of the update is the Playlist Playground, Apple’s branding for an AI-based playlist generator. The tool allows users to type free text commands (Prompts) that describe moods, activities or emotions, and in response the interface generates a matching list of songs – a step that aligns with similar capabilities that Spotify already introduced in 2024.
In the audio field, the update also includes official integration with the Bandsintown service. From now on, Apple Music users will be able to see upcoming performance dates of artists appearing in their area directly within the app. In addition, a new widget has been added to the home screen dedicated to ambient sounds (Ambient Music), allowing quick access to sounds curated by Apple and intended for focus, sleep or productivity.
The operating system’s emoji package has also expanded with the addition of new characters from the latest Unicode standard. Among others, emojis have been added for “Bigfoot” (Hairy Creature), a dust cloud simulating a cartoon fight, a killer whale (Orca), ballet dancers, a trombone and a treasure chest.
On the technical side, Apple is trying to calm the wave of complaints surrounding the Liquid Glass technology. The update includes a new setting called "Reduce Bright Effects" (Reduce Bright Effects), designed to address visual issues reported by users in previous versions of iOS 26. Alongside this, a keyboard bug that caused errors during fast typing has been fixed.
Alongside iOS, an update for macOS Tahoe 26.4 was also released, which brings back for Mac users (and also for iPad) the option to use the compact tab bar in the Safari browser. The update for computers also includes a new option to limit the maximum battery charge level (between 80 and 100 percent) to preserve battery life. For Apple Watch owners, watchOS 26.4 now allows starting a workout with one tap, without the need for a countdown or additional confirmations.