Apps & Software
Apple releases public beta 4 for iOS 27 systems
Apple’s iOS 27, macOS 27, iPadOS 27, tvOS 27, and watchOS 27 public beta 4 releases are now available with fixes and interface updates.
Apple has opened another public-testing round for its next-generation operating systems, with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, tvOS 27, watchOS 27, HomePod Software 27, and AirPods firmware now covered by its Beta Software Program. Itzine reports that Apple updated the program page to let participants enroll compatible devices and submit feedback through the Feedback Assistant app.
The public releases reported on August 18, 2026, include:
- iOS 27 Public Beta 4: Build 24A5418b
- iPadOS 27 Public Beta 4: Build 24A5418b
- tvOS 27 Public Beta 4: Build 24J5353b
- macOS 27 Public Beta 4: Build 26A5416b
- watchOS 27 Public Beta 4: Build 24R5353a
According to 9to5Mac, the releases followed the corresponding developer beta 6 updates by only a few hours. Apple’s notes for the round emphasize bug fixes and performance improvements as the company moves toward the final releases, which are expected in a few weeks according to the report.
What changes in the latest betas
The macOS 27 beta adds a new wallpaper and redesigned stoplight window controls for the “Golden Gate” interface. 9to5Mac also reports that a pinned Messages interface bug seen in beta 5 appears to be fixed, while iOS adds an updated notification animation and macOS receives a redesigned Preview icon matching the iOS version.
The public and developer builds generally share the same numbers. The exception is macOS: Apple initially published build 26A5416a and later re-released the public beta as 26A5416b.
Apple’s program page says testers must register their Apple Account and enroll each eligible device separately. On an iPhone, enrollment is completed through Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates, where users can select iOS 27 Public Beta. Apple recommends installing prerelease software on a secondary device, or making a current backup before using a primary iPhone.
Itzine says Apple had already released the iOS 27 public beta in July; the August 18 update expands the public-testing round across the wider platform lineup.