Activision has confirmed dates for the Modern Warfare 4 beta and the return of Call of Duty: Next, giving fans their clearest picture yet of the run-up to the game's launch. Next, the annual event traditionally used to unveil multiplayer gameplay, will take place on 21st August as a fully online "global event" rather than an in-person show, featuring a developer briefing followed by live creator gameplay before the beta opens immediately afterwards.

The beta runs across two weekends: a pre-order-only period from 21st to 25th August on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, followed by an open weekend from 28th August to 1st September that adds Nintendo Switch 2 for the first time. Switch 2 pre-orders go live on 26th August. Activision confirmed the beta will include 19 weapons, maps ranging from small 3v3 arenas to large vehicle battles, modes including Search & Destroy and the new Kill Block, and a Training Mobility Course to help players adjust to the game's movement mechanics. It follows a divisive weekend of early gameplay livestreams from Fanatics Fest NYC, with Modern Warfare 4 set for release on 23rd October across PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S and Switch 2.