Apple has unveiled new public betas across its software platforms, including macOS Sequoia 15.4, iPadOS 18.4, tvOS 18.4, and others. Here’s what you can look forward to.
How to Install Apple’s Latest Public Beta Releases
To access the new software, you must first register for Apple’s beta software program, which you can do for free at beta.apple.com.
If you have previously installed public beta software, you should find today’s updates in the Software Update section of your device’s Settings app.
Keep in mind that as these are the first beta updates for fresh software versions, you may encounter various bugs and performance issues on your devices.
New Features in macOS 15.4, iPadOS 18.4, and More
The initial beta updates are packed with numerous features, some of which are consistent across multiple devices while others are exclusive to specific ones.
Redesigned Mail App: Apple Mail has undergone a substantial redesign, introducing inbox categorization on the iPhone. These enhancements are now also available for Mac and iPad users with macOS 15.4 and iPadOS 18.4.
Proximity Pairing for Mac: With the introduction of iOS 18.4 and macOS 15.4, you can use your iPhone to expedite the setup of a new Mac—mimicking a feature already accessible for iPhone and iPad.
Ambient Music Feature on iPad: iPadOS 18.4 enhances Control Center with new options. It includes four Ambient Music controls to provide playlists tailored for specific moods: Chill, Productivity, Sleep, and Wellbeing. You can select from pre-existing playlists or create your own.
New Food Section in Apple News: Exclusive to iPad (and iPhone), Apple News+ subscribers now have access to a new food section within the News app, featuring tens of thousands of recipes along with a sleek new in-app recipe navigation.
AI-Powered Priority Notifications: Similar to the feature available in Apple Mail for messages, notifications can now be sorted automatically into ‘important’ and ‘less important’ categories. Notifications considered most significant by Apple Intelligence will appear at the top of your notification stack.
Additionally, there are several other modifications in today’s updates:
- Apple Intelligence now extends support to the EU for iPad users
- iPadOS permits users to choose a default Translation app, while Navigation is a new default category in the EU
- The Image Playground introduces a new Sketch style aimed at creating original images
- Apple Podcasts features two new widget types for your Library and Shows
- Apple Intelligence includes support for many more languages
- Several other minor UI enhancements and changes are also included
Have you installed the latest macOS 15.4 beta or another public beta? How is the performance for you? Share your thoughts in the comments.
