Apple has officially released the watchOS 26.5 beta 4 update (build 23T5568a) only for developers for testing, while the public rollout will be available later. This update is expected to launch publicly in mid-May. It includes a new Pride watch face and creates systems for upcoming WWDC announcements. The watchOS 26.5 beta 4 is designed to bring some new features to the Apple Watch. This latest beta update is currently having a focus on performance improvements, bug fixes, and subtle feature enhancements ahead of the wider rollout.
Apple is clearly focused on stability and optimization, ensuring that when watchOS 26.5 beta 4 reaches global users, they should get a smoother, more reliable performance across supported Apple Watch models. Developers can now test their apps and prepare for the upcoming public releases.
How to update the watchOS 26.5 Beta 4?
You all can follow these steps to install this update in your watch:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Go to the General -> Software Update -> Beta Update
- Select the watchOS 26.5 developer beta option
- Download the update with the watch on its charger
Note: The watch should be charged at least 50% and connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Key Information of 26.5 Beta Cycle (including Beta 4)
- App Updates: Improvements and testing for Maps, Messages, and the App Store
- EU Features: Testing of proximity pairing, notification forwarding, and Live Activities for third-party wearables, specifically for the European Union market
- Performance & Stability: Its primary focus is on system improvements and fixing bugs from the previous 26.4 updates
- No new Siri Features: No significant Siri improvements are included, with changes expected to be held until later in the year
- Encryption: Continued testing of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messaging
- Map Features: Testing “Suggesting Places” for local recommendations and foundational work for ads in Apple Maps
The watchOS 26.5 beta 4 update comes with a 440MB download size, and if you are running on stable watchOS 26.4 beta 4, then it requires more data for installation. This update is compatible with all the Apple Watch models that are running on WatchOS 26 or newer versions. If you all want this update, then we have the first update, the previous update to iOS 26.5 beta, then go for the watchOS 26.5 beta 4 update.
Whereas, iOS 26.5 beta users have got notable features for iPhone and Watch, like end-to-end encryption for RCS, Notification forwarding outside the EU, CarPlay improvements, and more.