Apple has released the first release candidate builds for iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4, signaling that a public release is drawing near. The RC1 builds replace the fourth developer beta versions that arrived on March 9, following a rapid development cycle that began with the first beta on February 16.

These builds include specific version numbers: iOS 26.4 RC1 is build 23E244, macOS Tahoe 26.4 RC1 is 25E241, and others follow similar naming conventions. Apple also released RC versions for older operating systems including iOS 18.7.7, macOS 15.7.5, and macOS 14.8.5. The release candidate designation typically indicates the software is feature-complete and undergoing final testing before public distribution.

Earlier beta versions introduced several notable features including Apple Podcasts updates, Apple Music enhancements, RCS end-to-end encryption, and Stolen Device Protection activation. The fourth beta also added new emoji such as ballet dancers, Bigfoot, and an Orca, along with fresh wallpapers in macOS Tahoe 26.4. While RC builds suggest imminent release, AppleInsider notes that second release candidates have been posted in the past, meaning the public launch could still be days or weeks away.