Apple released an update iOS 26.2 Earlier this month, Apple released some new features and improvements, and the first beta tests for the upcoming iOS 26.3 update have already begun. However, it might be best to wait a little longer before installing the first beta version, as many members of Apple's development team are currently on holiday, resulting in a reduced staffing level. This could mean that crash reports in the beta versions aren't receiving the attention they deserve, and fixing necessary issues might take longer than usual.
iOS 26.4 is expected to bring significant changes when it launches in the spring of 2026, including a completely redesigned Siri, while iOS 26.3 has more modest goals. Nevertheless, this update remains an important stepping stone to the larger release. Below, we'll review the key features of this update and when we can expect it.
It's worth noting that Apple previously restricted beta testing to paid subscribers of its developer program, but now any Apple user can download iOS beta versions by following the instructions on Apple's official website. Beforehand, however, developer mode must be enabled in Settings, which prepares the iPhone or iPad to run the Xcode tool.
What's new in the iOS 26.3 update?
With the iOS 26.3 update, Apple aims to make it easier to use iPhones with non-Apple devices, as well as simplify the process of switching to and from Android. This comes as part of a joint collaboration between Apple and Google, which will allow users to transfer data, such as apps, emails, and photos, more seamlessly between different platforms.
iOS users in the European Union will also get an improved notification system that allows them to view certain alerts on third-party smartwatches, such as the Garmin Fenix 8, known for its high price and advanced features. However, users will only be able to choose one watch at a time, as it will not be possible to pair an iPhone with both an Apple Watch and a third-party watch simultaneously.
Apple is also expected to release a new wallpaper called Black Unity before or in conjunction with the final release of iOS 26.3, coinciding with Black History Month.
European users will also benefit from new NFC components designed for third-party device connectivity, as well as faster Wi-Fi for direct data exchange between devices. Users in other regions will not receive these features, as they are a direct result of the European Parliament's 2022 Digital Markets Act (DMA), the same legislation that previously prompted Apple to switch from a Lightning to a USB-C charging port.
How does Apple determine the timing of new iOS releases?
iOS updates, specifically version 3, are often affected by the holiday season, sometimes resulting in delays, although beta testing periods may be shorter compared to mid-year releases. Since Apple follows a relatively consistent release schedule, previous versions can be consulted for insights into what to expect.
iOS 16.3 was released to the public in the early days of February 2023, including a new Unity background, support for the HomePod 2 speaker, and a more secure two-factor authentication system on new devices.
iOS 17.3 was released in late January 2024, bringing improvements to lost device protection, collaborative playlists in Apple Music, and support for AirPlay with some hotel room entertainment systems.
In late January 2025, Apple released the iOS 18.3 update, which included notable changes to Apple's intelligence and visual intelligence features, before the company decided to jump to the iOS 26 naming convention in order to unify version numbers across its devices and synchronize them with the new calendar year.
If the beta tests do not reveal serious problems, and if Apple sticks to its usual approach, the final version of iOS 26.3 is likely to be released in late January or early February.
Although the new features in this update do not include radical changes to the user interface, Apple may have preferred to postpone some improvements to the larger iOS 26.4 update.
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