Apple VisionOS 26 Beta 4 Debuts Alongside watchOS and tvOS Updates: Key Features Revealed

The relentless march of Apple’s software evolution continues as the tech giant releases its fourth developer betas for visionOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26. These simultaneous updates signal Apple’s synchronized push toward refining its ecosystem ahead of anticipated fall releases, with visionOS 26 beta 4 delivering particularly transformative spatial computing enhancements alongside meaningful upgrades to Apple Watch and Apple TV experiences.

VisionOS 26 Beta 4: Spatial Computing Evolves

The headlining visionOS 26 beta 4 update marks a milestone for Apple’s spatial computing ambitions. Most notably, Personas have officially exited beta status with Apple confirming: “The all-new Personas now have striking expressivity and sharpness, offering a full side profile view, and remarkably accurate hair, lashes, and complexion” (Apple Developer Notes, July 2024). This advancement addresses early criticism of the virtual representation system’s realism.

The update introduces four groundbreaking capabilities:

• Spatial Widgets: Applications can now place interactive widgets directly in physical space
• Spatial Scenes: Dynamic environments adapt to real-world contexts
• Spatial Browsing: Revolutionary navigation through 3D digital spaces
• Shared Spatial Experiences: Multi-user collaboration in augmented reality

Critically, Apple has implemented “distraction-free experiences” where widgets intelligently disappear when the headset reactivates, reducing visual clutter – a direct response to developer feedback about spatial overload.

WatchOS 26 Beta 4: Smarter Fitness and Navigation

Apple’s wearable platform receives substantial quality-of-life improvements. The Liquid Glass UI – first showcased at WWDC 2025 – now extends to the Passcode screen with distinctive bubble animations. Fitness capabilities leap forward as the Smart Stack proactively suggests workouts when users enter gyms.

A breakthrough offline navigation feature allows Apple Watches to retrace routes even after cellular signal loss, potentially revolutionizing wilderness safety. Series 9 and newer models gain a practical “wrist flick” gesture to swiftly dismiss notifications, building on existing gesture controls.

tvOS 26 Beta 4: Entertainment and Accessibility Enhanced

Apple’s television platform focuses on discovery and accessibility. The redesigned Apple TV app now showcases cinematic poster art to simplify content discovery. A new login API streamlines authentication across streaming services during device setup – eliminating tedious code-entry routines.

Apple Music receives three significant upgrades:

• Lyrics Translation: Real-time song translations
• Lyrics Pronunciation: Phonetic guides for foreign language tracks
• Apple Music Sing: iPhone microphone integration for karaoke

Profile switching becomes more intuitive, allowing seamless transitions between family members’ viewing preferences and recommendations.

These coordinated visionOS 26 beta 4, watchOS 26 beta 4, and tvOS 26 beta 4 releases demonstrate Apple’s ecosystem-first approach, with spatial computing taking center stage alongside meaningful quality-of-life enhancements across devices. Developers can immediately test these builds through the Apple Developer Center, with public releases expected this fall. Install now to experience tomorrow’s Apple ecosystem today.

Must Know

What devices support visionOS 26 beta 4?
Currently, visionOS 26 beta 4 is exclusive to Apple Vision Pro developers. It requires Xcode 16 and enrollment in Apple’s Developer Program. Consumer availability typically follows developer testing cycles by several months.

How significant are the Persona improvements in visionOS 26?
Apple describes the overhaul as transformative – with full side profiles, realistic hair rendering, and enhanced skin texture accuracy. The technology now exits beta status after extensive refinement, indicating readiness for mainstream adoption in professional and social applications.

Can I try watchOS 26 beta without cellular loss concerns?
The offline navigation safety feature works automatically when signal drops. However, beta software carries inherent stability risks. Apple advises against installing developer betas on primary devices due to potential battery drain or performance issues.

When will tvOS 26 public beta launch?
Based on Apple’s typical schedule, a public beta for tvOS 26 should arrive in late July or early August, preceding a final September release alongside new hardware. The current developer beta focuses on API stability and refinement.

Are Spatial Widgets always visible in visionOS?
No. A key enhancement in visionOS 26 beta 4 is “distraction-free” behavior where widgets automatically disappear when the headset deactivates. They reappear upon reactivation, maintaining environmental awareness while reducing visual clutter during real-world interactions.