A leaked internal build of Apple’s iOS software has revealed clues about the company’s plans for iPhones, AirPods, Apple Watch, and even future operating systems, stretching as far as iOS 28.
The build, uncovered by Macworld, contains hidden “feature flags” used by Apple engineers to test upcoming ideas. While not all features are guaranteed to launch, these flags often reflect Apple’s long-term roadmap.
What’s Coming In iOS 26.4 (Spring 2026)
Apple’s next mid-cycle update looks bigger than usual:
- Redesigned Health app with a cleaner layout and easier data tracking
- Preparation for a possible Health+ subscription, including AI-powered health insights
- Credit card autofill for third-party apps via iCloud Keychain
- Folders in Freeform, making Apple’s digital whiteboard more practical
- A new Sports subscription tier for Apple TV
- Stronger security checks to block modified or jailbroken devices
- A smarter Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, expected to use large language models
- New AirPods tracking features, likely exclusive to newer models
Early Hints For iOS 27
The leak also references features planned further ahead, including:
- Improved Photos app collections
- A faster and more reliable AirPods pairing system
Big Ambitions For iOS 28
Looking even further ahead, iOS 28 appears to be a major turning point for Apple’s ecosystem:
- Expanded sleep tracking metrics with Apple Watch
- The Health app coming to Mac
- Deeper integration between iPhone, iPad, Mac, and future spatial devices
- Stronger focus on AI, privacy, and cross-device experiences
The Bigger Picture
While Apple may delay or cancel some features, internal leaks often reveal what the company is prioritizing behind the scenes. Based on this build, Apple is clearly laying the groundwork for more intelligent software, stronger security, and tighter integration across all its devices.
If these plans hold, the next few years of iOS updates could bring some of Apple’s most meaningful changes yet.
