Apple continues to refine its next round of software updates, releasing beta 4 versions of visionOS 2.4, watchOS 11.4, tvOS 18.4, and HomePod 18.4. Developers now have access to these updates as Apple moves closer to their public rollout. The latest software builds arrive just a week after beta 3, bringing further refinements, stability improvements, and new features for select platforms.
Public Beta Now Available
Apple initially released these updates for developers, but as of 4:20 p.m. ET, public betas are also available for watchOS, tvOS, and HomePod. This allows non-developers who have signed up for Apple’s beta program to try out the latest versions before their official release. While these builds are generally stable, users should expect occasional bugs and performance inconsistencies, as they are still in development.
New Features in visionOS 2.4
Among all the updates, visionOS 2.4 brings the most significant changes. Apple is introducing its first Apple Intelligence features to Vision Pro, expanding the device’s capabilities with AI-powered enhancements. These tools aim to improve the user experience, making Vision Pro even more versatile for productivity, entertainment, and general use.
Another notable addition is an improved guest mode, which allows users to share their Vision Pro with others while maintaining privacy and security. The update also introduces a new Spatial Gallery app, designed to showcase immersive 3D media in a more engaging way. Additional refinements include minor UI tweaks and performance enhancements that contribute to a smoother experience.
Changes in tvOS 18.4
While tvOS 18.4 does not bring any groundbreaking new features, Apple has focused on refining the TV app’s interface. Several small but meaningful improvements make it easier for users to manage their watchlists and stay updated on new episodes of their favorite shows.
One of the most noticeable changes is the addition of a large plus button on featured titles. This provides a simple way to add content to a watchlist with a single tap. Another update highlights the episode release schedule more prominently, ensuring that viewers can easily track upcoming content.
Aesthetic updates include revised fonts and icons throughout the app, offering a cleaner and more consistent visual style. While these changes may seem minor, they contribute to an overall more polished experience for Apple TV 4K users.
What to Expect from watchOS 11.4 and HomePod 18.4
Unlike visionOS and tvOS, watchOS 11.4 and HomePod 18.4 do not introduce any major new features. Apple has not provided specific details on changes within these updates, but they are expected to include standard bug fixes and performance improvements. These minor refinements help ensure that Apple Watch and HomePod users experience fewer glitches and better reliability.
Even without major feature additions, these updates play an important role in maintaining software stability. Apple consistently refines its operating systems to improve responsiveness and optimize battery life, particularly for Apple Watch users who rely on all-day performance.
Stability and Bug Fixes in Beta 4
With these beta 4 releases, Apple is primarily focused on stability and performance. As software updates progress toward public release, major feature additions become less common, with the emphasis shifting toward fixing bugs and enhancing overall reliability. Developers testing these updates will likely find fewer crashes and performance issues compared to earlier betas.
For those using Apple’s beta program, this means a smoother experience with fewer disruptions. While there is still a possibility of minor issues, these later-stage betas are generally more refined than their earlier counterparts.
Expected Release Timeline
Apple is just a few weeks away from making these updates available to the general public. If the company follows its usual update cycle, the final versions of visionOS 2.4, watchOS 11.4, tvOS 18.4, and HomePod 18.4 will likely arrive in early April. This timeline aligns with Apple’s typical release schedule for incremental updates.
Users who prefer to wait for the official public releases will not have to wait long. Once these updates become widely available, they will be accessible through the software update settings on compatible devices.
How to Install the Betas
For those interested in trying these updates before their public release, Apple provides a straightforward way to install beta versions. Developers can access the latest builds through Apple’s Developer Program, while public beta testers can enroll through Apple’s Beta Software Program.
To install a beta update, users should ensure their devices are backed up, as beta software can sometimes introduce unexpected issues. Once backed up, they can navigate to the software update section of their device settings and follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the beta.
Apple’s Focus on Refinement
While these updates may not bring revolutionary new features to every platform, Apple’s focus remains on refining the user experience. Whether through improved AI integration in visionOS, interface adjustments in tvOS, or stability improvements in watchOS and HomePod, each update plays a role in enhancing Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple’s approach to software development emphasizes gradual refinements, ensuring that each release builds upon the last. This method allows the company to introduce new capabilities while maintaining the stability and reliability that users expect.
User Feedback and Future Updates
As Apple continues testing these updates, user feedback remains an essential part of the process. Developers and beta testers who install these updates are encouraged to report any issues they encounter. Apple uses this feedback to address bugs and make further refinements before the final release.
Looking ahead, Apple will likely introduce even more substantial updates at its upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The company traditionally uses WWDC to unveil major software updates, providing a glimpse of what’s next for visionOS, watchOS, tvOS, and more.
The Bigger Picture
Apple’s latest beta updates are part of its ongoing effort to enhance its software ecosystem. visionOS 2.4 stands out as the most significant update in this round, with AI-powered features and new apps enhancing the Vision Pro experience. Meanwhile, tvOS 18.4 brings interface refinements that make navigation more intuitive.
watchOS 11.4 and HomePod 18.4 may not introduce major new features, but they contribute to Apple’s broader goal of ensuring seamless performance across all devices. By focusing on stability and usability, these updates help maintain Apple’s reputation for delivering high-quality software.
As the public release date approaches, Apple users can look forward to a more polished experience across their devices. Whether taking advantage of Vision Pro’s new AI capabilities, enjoying a refreshed TV app, or simply benefiting from system-wide optimizations, these updates bring meaningful improvements to the Apple ecosystem.
