One of the more meaningful changes in iOS 26.4 is that Stolen Device Protection is now enabled by default, rather than requiring users to opt in. The feature, which adds biometric requirements for sensitive actions when your iPhone is away from familiar locations, is now on by default for everyone.

Just updated to iOS 26.4? From the new AI 'Playlist Playground' to the Orca emoji, here are the 5 things you must do immediately to master the new features.

Apple framed iOS 26.2 as a routine point release, but the software quietly rewires how the iPhone feels in daily use. Beyond the headline tweaks, it hides a cluster of small, deeply practical changes that reshape notifications, the Lock Screen, core apps ...