Apple has officially rolled out the third developer beta versions for its latest operating system updates, including iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, tvOS 18.4, watchOS 11.4, and visionOS 2.4. Developers can now test the new builds, introducing enhancements, bug fixes, and new features.
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Latest Beta Release Details
Following the second beta, which was introduced on March 3, Apple has now made the third beta available for developers. The first beta of this cycle was initially launched on February 21. Below are the latest build numbers:
- iOS 18.4 & iPadOS 18.4: Build number 22E5222f (up from 22E5216h)
- macOS Sequoia 15.4: Build number 24E5228e (previously 24E5222f)
- tvOS 18.4: Build number 22L5240e
- watchOS 11.4: Build number 22T5234f
- visions 2.4: Build number 22O5221d
Notable Changes and New Features in iOS 18.4
Apple continues to refine its software with each beta release. The first build of iOS 18.4 introduced several improvements, particularly in Apple Intelligence, with expanded localization support. Additionally, Image Playground gained a new sketch style, allowing users to experiment with different artistic effects.
Another key addition was Priority Notifications, which enhances the display of critical alerts, ensuring that essential messages are more noticeable.
Enhancements in Apple Vision Pro and App Updates
Apple Vision Pro users received a new app designed to help them navigate the features of their headset. This app includes a Discover section that showcases apps and immersive videos tailored for the device.
In addition, Apple News+ introduced new food-related content, while Control Center gained new Ambient Music controls, allowing for more personalized audio experiences. Other refinements were made to Apple Maps, Apple Wallet, CarPlay, Mobile Device Management, Podcasts, and Siri.
iPad and macOS Improvements
For iPadOS users, the first beta build introduced on-device email categorization, a feature that also made its way to macOS Sequoia 15.4. This enhancement streamlines email organization by automatically sorting messages into relevant categories.
Meanwhile, visionOS 2.4 saw the initial integration of Apple Intelligence, expanding its capabilities for Apple’s mixed-reality platform.
New Additions in the Second Beta Release
The second round of developer betas introduced a new set of emoji characters, offering more expressive options for users. Visual Intelligence, which became available on the iPhone 15 Pro, significantly improved. Apple also added a dedicated Control Center section for Apple Intelligence features, making them more accessible.
App Store and Wallet Enhancements
The App Store now includes a pause button for download updates, allowing users to halt ongoing downloads temporarily. Additionally, Shortcuts received refinements, and there were indications that CarPlay may soon include an EV route-planning update.
A new menu icon was introduced for Apple Wallet, providing quicker access to in-app settings and order management. In France, Orange network users gained support for the RCS protocol, further enhancing messaging capabilities.
Caution for Beta Testers
Apple and industry experts strongly advise against installing beta versions on primary or mission-critical devices. Since beta software is still in development, it may contain bugs and instabilities that could lead to data loss or system crashes. To minimize risk, developers and testers should use secondary devices and maintain comprehensive backups of essential data.
Final Thoughts
The third developer beta of iOS 18.4 and related updates introduce several exciting enhancements across Apple’s ecosystem. With Apple Intelligence improvements, refined app functionalities, and better user experience features, these updates continue to push Apple’s software forward. Developers testing these beta versions should provide feedback to help refine the expected final rule in the coming weeks.
