Apple has rolled out the first developer beta of iOS 26.3, and on its surface, it is a relatively minor update that focuses on greater interoperability across ecosystems. Some of the major highlights of the third major patch of iOS 26, since its public release in September 2026, include a new tool for seamless data transfer from iPhone to Android devices and expanded notification support for non-Apple wearables, alongside subtle visual tweaks.
While not as feature-packed as the iOS 26.2 update, this release focuses primarily on platform flexibility and user convenience, with a public rollout anticipated toward the end of January 2026—following patterns seen in prior third patch updates.
Seamless data transfer to Android
One of the standout additions is the “Transfer to Android” feature, developed in partnership with Google to simplify switching from an iPhone to an Android phone. Users can initiate the process wirelessly by placing the two devices close together. The tool migrates essential data such as photos, messages, notes, contacts, apps, and even the phone number.
Sensitive information, including Health data, Bluetooth pairings, locked notes, and other protected items, is excluded for privacy reasons. Apple notes that support for additional data types may expand during the beta period based on testing feedback.
This move represents a notable shift for Apple, making it easier for users to exit its ecosystem—a step likely influenced by regulatory pressures and competitive dynamics.
Enhanced notifications for third-party wearables and more
iOS 26.3 introduces notification forwarding to compatible third-party smartwatches and wearables, allowing iPhone alerts to appear on non-Apple devices. Users can view and interact with notifications directly on the wearable. To avoid redundancy, the feature supports only one accessory at a time—if active on a third-party device, notifications won’t duplicate on an Apple Watch.
Additionally, Apple has refined the wallpaper options by splitting the combined Weather and Astronomy category into two distinct sections. Astronomy wallpapers continue to offer dynamic real-time views of Earth and the solar system, while the new Weather category includes fresh pre-built options that adapt to current local conditions. These changes, though small, enhance customisation and cross-platform compatibility.
As beta testing progresses, more refinements could emerge. Developers and enthusiasts can install the update now, while general users should wait for the stable version to ensure reliability.
