iOS 26.4: AI in the car, improved Health app, and more
Normal users can now also test the beta of iOS 26.4. More and more details are emerging.
iOS 26: Overview from Apple.
(Image: Apple)
Following the release of the first beta of iOS 26.4, which is now available not only for developers but also for private beta testers, more and more details are emerging from the update. While Apple's long-awaited, context-sensitive Siri has still not been implemented, there are many positive additions and modifications. These include CarPlay integration, Apple Music, Apple Health, Shortcuts, and more.
AI comes to the car – not from Apple
As expected, Apple has enabled a new type of app for its iPhone in-car integration, CarPlay: these are AI apps. Voice assistant systems from OpenAI (ChatGPT app), Anthropic (Claude app), and Google (Gemini) can now be installed in CarPlay, provided developers implement a corresponding switch and other additions. This is evident from Apple's CarPlay Developer Documentation.
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A new voice control screen with visual feedback is intended to implement this easily and without distraction. Apple had apparently hesitated for a long time internally to ensure that such apps do not interfere with vehicle use – how practical the implementation will be remains to be seen. It is already clear that Siri cannot be seamlessly replaced by Claude & Co. The physical Siri button, which is implemented in many cars, will not even be usable to launch AI apps.
Video in the car, playlists, sleep
Meanwhile, video playback in CarPlay has been demonstrated for the first time in a prototype video. The problem: Apple only allows this in certain vehicle models, and manufacturers must cooperate.
In Apple Health, Apple has continued to work on sleep tracking. The system now shows how well you adhere to set sleep times previously. Apple Music comes with a new AI playlist feature. The interface for creating playlists has also been improved; you can now add a song to multiple playlists. Shortcuts can now set a charging limit for the iPhone battery if desired.
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