Apple has unveiled public beta 2 across several software platforms, including macOS Sequoia 15.4, iPadOS 15.4, tvOS 18.4, and more. These updates follow just over a week after the initial beta releases and come a day after the developer versions.
How to Install the Latest Beta Updates
Participants in Apple’s free beta software program can access a range of updates not yet available to the wider public.
Currently, beta testing encompasses iOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, iPadOS 18.4, tvOS 18.4, HomePod 18.4, and watchOS 11.4. Note that there isn’t a visionOS beta available for public testing yet.
To install the latest beta 2 updates, simply navigate to the Software Update section in the Settings app on your device.
If you’re new to the program, make sure to enroll online first.
New Features in Beta 2: iPadOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, and More
Adding to the array of features that debuted in the initial public betas last week—such as the revamped Mail app—Apple has incorporated the following enhancements in beta 2.
There are seven new emojis now available in the emoji keyboard, including:
- Face with bags under eyes
- Fingerprint
- Leafless tree
- Root vegetable
- Harp
- Shovel
- Splatter
While these emojis could be individually created using Genmoji, it’s still significant for Apple to integrate them into the keyboard for universal accessibility.
Apple’s Shortcuts app has received several new actions that enhance the ability to modify settings across various Apple applications. These changes will benefit Shortcuts users and hint at the expanded capabilities of the Siri app in the near future.
Regarding Siri, the Control Center in iPadOS 18.4 now features a new Talk to Siri control, complementing the existing Type to Siri option.
In terms of Apple Intelligence upgrades, the Priority Notifications feature from beta 1 now allows customization of which apps can have their alerts included.
If you’re downloading App Store apps or updates, there is now a pause button to temporarily halt a download, eliminating the need to cancel and restart.
Lastly, for Apple TV 4K users, there’s a new enhancement in the TV app that adds a plus button to the shows and movies displayed in the top carousel, enabling quick additions to your watchlist.
What are your thoughts on the new changes in beta 2 for iPadOS 18.4 or any other update? Share your favorites with us in the comments.
