Apple has released iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 for iPhones and iPads. This update comes about two months after the previous release and includes several improvements and features that may not be widely known.
New features and improvements in the update
Although Apple hasn't detailed all the changes in this version, it primarily focuses on bug fixes and security improvements. Apple stated that these updates address dozens of security vulnerabilities, including one known to have already been exploited.
However, there are important new features, including the ability to easily transfer data from Apple devices to Android devices during the setup of the new device. You can transfer photos, messages, notes, apps, and more without needing to download additional apps.
This feature was introduced by the European Union to facilitate user transfers between systems without data loss. Apple has agreed to implement it globally, not just in Europe.
Privacy and Site Monitoring
The update adds a new ability to limit your location tracking by mobile carriers, but it's only available to select companies worldwide, such as Boost Mobile in the US, and some companies in the UK, Germany, and Thailand. This feature only works with devices using a C1 or C1X modem.
Support for third-party smart devices
Apple has also been experimenting with a feature that allows non-Apple smart devices, such as watches and headphones, to connect to iPhones and iPads with ease. This feature is similar to how AirPods connect with a single tap, and the smart devices can display more interactive notifications on your device.
However, these features may not be available now in the official update and are only available in the European Union, and may come to everyone in future updates.
How can I download the update?
You can easily download the update to your device by going to Settings, then General, then Software Update. The update will be available if your device supports it, and you can install it wirelessly.
Why is this update important?
The vulnerability in previous systems could allow for the execution of arbitrary code, and Apple indicated that this flaw may have been exploited in a “highly sophisticated attack” against targeted individuals in older iOS versions.
An attacker with the ability to write to memory could execute arbitrary code. Apple added that it is aware of a report indicating this vulnerability may have been exploited in a highly sophisticated attack against specific, targeted individuals in iOS versions. The company explained that the memory corruption issue has been fixed through improved state management.
There are also several other security vulnerabilities that have been fixed not only in iOS, iPadOS and macOS, but also in other Apple platforms that saw updates released today.
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