Apple has released iOS 26.3, a mid-cycle update that focuses on device switching tools, privacy controls, and regulatory-driven changes in the European Union. While attention is already shifting toward iOS 26.4 and its expected Siri overhaul, iOS 26.3 introduces several functional updates that affect everyday use on iPhone and iPad.
One of the most notable additions in iOS 26.3 is a built-in iPhone to Android transfer tool. For years, Apple offered a streamlined way to move data from Android to iPhone, but the reverse process required third-party solutions. With this update, users can now transfer photos, messages, notes, apps, and other data wirelessly from an iPhone to a supported Android device directly through Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Transfer to Android. The tool also supports eSIM transfer on compatible devices and carriers. While this feature may not appeal to most existing iPhone users, it reflects regulatory pressure and a broader industry shift toward interoperability.
Privacy is another area of focus in iOS 26.3. Devices equipped with Apple’s C1 and C1X modems—including iPhone 16e, iPhone Air, and the cellular version of the M5 iPad Pro—gain a new option to limit how precisely cellular networks can determine device location. The setting reduces the accuracy available to carriers while maintaining approximate location access for apps and websites. According to Apple, emergency services location data remains unaffected during emergency calls. Availability depends on carrier support, meaning rollout may vary by region.
RCS messaging also sees groundwork for improvement. Apple previously added RCS support to improve communication between iPhone and Android users, but encrypted RCS has been missing. Code in iOS 26.3 indicates that the system is now prepared for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging. However, activation depends on carrier implementation, and no providers have enabled it so far. If adopted widely, encrypted RCS could close one of the remaining gaps between iMessage and cross-platform messaging.
In the European Union, iOS 26.3 introduces new APIs that allow third-party accessories—such as smartwatches and smart glasses—to display iPhone notifications. The update also enables AirPods-style fast pairing for non-Apple accessories in the EU, allowing devices to initiate pairing when brought near an iPhone or iPad. These changes align with ongoing digital market regulations in the region aimed at reducing platform lock-in. Outside the EU, these capabilities remain unavailable.
Other smaller changes include a dedicated section for Weather wallpapers, making them easier to access, along with general bug fixes and security patches.
Looking ahead, iOS 26.4 is expected to bring more substantial changes, including a redesigned Siri reportedly powered by Gemini and deeper app integration features. Additional updates may include improvements to Health, Find My, Freeform, and autofill capabilities. If those features arrive as anticipated, iOS 26.3 will likely be remembered as a preparatory release—focused less on headline features and more on structural adjustments.
For now, iPhone and iPad users can install iOS 26.3 through Settings > General > Software Update.
