iOS 18.4 Beta Release Date and What to Expect: The Countdown Begins

iOS 18.4 Beta Release Date: Here’s What to Expect

Apple has concluded the iOS 18.3 beta cycle, and typically, new betas would have been released shortly after. However, as of mid-February, there is still no sign of iOS 18.4 beta 1. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the iOS 18.4 beta should be available between the middle of this week and early next week. Given that this week has passed without a release, the most likely date for the beta is Tuesday, February 18.

Why the Delay?

• President’s Day: Monday, February 17, is a holiday in the US, making it unlikely for a beta release on that day.
• Product Launch: Apple has a special product launch event on Wednesday, February 19, which could delay the beta release to avoid overshadowing the new products.

Historical Context

• In previous years, Apple usually releases new betas shortly after major public launches. However, in 2023, there was a similar delay between iOS 16.3 and iOS 16.4.
• The longer wait between betas is unusual but not unprecedented.

What’s Next?

• Apple has announced that iOS 18.4 will be publicly available in April, necessitating the start of the beta testing period soon to incorporate planned upgrades for Apple Intelligence and Siri.