Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta Update—Infinity Ward Adjusts Schedule

Infinity Ward and Activision are pushing ahead with the beta for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, reshaping parts of the test experience based on player feedback even as the first phase winds down. After a limited run for pre-order customers, the program moves into a wider open window at the end of August.

What the Modern Warfare 4 beta schedule looks like

1. August 21–25: The first beta session runs for players on PC and on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, limited to those who pre-ordered.
2. August 28–September 1: A second session opens to everyone who wants to join, including players on Nintendo Switch 2.

The developers also confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order period begins on August 26, aligning the wider beta window with the platform’s launch preparation.

Changes already made in the beta

While the first beta phase was still active, Infinity Ward continued updating the test based on what players reported. Among the tweaks mentioned are adjustments to the audio system for footsteps, the addition of new content including the Cachette and Lotus maps, and promises of further work focused on optimization and mouse controls.

What players can do during the beta

In the beta, players will be able to jump into multiple multiplayer maps and modes and choose from a broad set of Operators. The beta includes access to all Operators from the Vault edition for pre-order customers.

Weapons are also part of the rollout: testers can unlock up to 19 weapon types before a match begins. Multiplayer experiences range from smaller 3v3 engagements to large, tactical battles featuring tanks and more.

Mode coverage includes both familiar and brand-new options, with mentions of Search & Destroy, a new mode called Kill Block, and a Training Mobility Course. The full list of activities is designed to let players test both movement and combat mechanics before launch.

Call of Duty: Next timing and Modern Warfare 4 release dates

The timing for the beta is tied to another announced event. On August 21, the same day the first beta phase begins, a special live broadcast for Call of Duty: Next will take place. During the stream, developers plan to show gameplay, explain multiplayer mode details, and share additional information about the tests.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 launches on October 23 for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2. The campaign is scheduled for October 16 for pre-order customers. The game will not be available at launch on Xbox Game Pass, a point Xbox has emphasized in prior messaging.