Apple’s iOS 26.3 Beta 3 brings several key updates for iPhone users, focusing on cross-platform transfers, enhanced privacy, and new features for EU users. Highlights include an easier way to switch to Android, location data controls, wearable notifications, and refreshed wallpapers.
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Release Information
Apple released the third iOS 26.3 beta in late January 2026. This update continues to refine interoperability, privacy, and support for third-party devices, providing iPhone users with more control and flexibility in their daily usage.
Key Updates
Android Transfer
iOS 26.3 introduces a new “Transfer to Android” system, developed in collaboration with Google. Users can place their iPhone next to an Android device to wirelessly transfer photos, messages, apps, notes, and their phone number. Sensitive data such as Health data, Bluetooth devices, and locked notes are excluded from the transfer. Apple and Google plan to expand transferable data in future updates.
Limit Location Data Sharing
The update adds “Limit Price Location”, a privacy feature that restricts how precisely cellular networks can determine a user’s location. Carriers can now identify general neighborhoods rather than exact addresses. Supported devices include iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and iPad Pro (M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular, with carriers in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Thailand offering compatibility.
Notification Forwarding
A Notification Forwarding system allows iPhone notifications to appear on third-party smartwatches and wearables. Only one accessory can receive forwarded notifications at a time, and Apple Watch notifications are temporarily paused while this feature is active. Currently, this feature is limited to EU users to comply with Digital Markets Act regulations.
More EU Features
iOS 26.3 introduces additional EU-specific updates:
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Proximity pairing for third-party accessories, similar to AirPods
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New NFC functionality to initiate connected devices without the iPhone
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High-bandwidth Wi-Fi connections for peer-to-peer use
These improvements support better interoperability with smartwatches, headphones, and other connected devices.
Wallpapers
Apple refined the Wallpapers menu, splitting Weather and Astronomy into separate categories. New Weather wallpapers now display live conditions, while Astronomy wallpapers reflect the positioning of Earth and the Solar System.
Performance Comparison
iOS 26.3 is a smaller update than iOS 26.2, with limited changes to system speed or battery usage reported. Its focus is primarily on interoperability and privacy enhancements rather than performance optimization.
Bug Fixes
The beta version addresses minor issues from iOS 26.2, including notification inconsistencies with third-party accessories and minor interface glitches in the Wallpapers menu. Detailed patch notes will be provided closer to the public release.
Release Timing
iOS 26.3 is expected to roll out publicly in late January or early February 2026, following the beta testing phase. This timing aligns with Apple’s typical update schedule for the iOS 26 series.
Editor's Comments
While iOS 26.3 Beta 3 may appear modest in scope, it introduces some notable improvements for users interested in cross-platform flexibility and enhanced privacy. Android Transfer is particularly useful for users switching devices, and the Notification Forwarding feature signals Apple’s compliance with EU interoperability rules. The update reflects Apple’s ongoing balance between user control, privacy, and regulatory compliance.
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