Apple has released the first beta version of iOS 26.3 to developers. This update introduces several new features. The most notable one helps users switch from iPhone to Android. Other changes include new notification settings and lock screen updates.
New Tool to Switch from iPhone to Android
A major new feature is a direct data transfer tool. It is designed for users moving from an iPhone to an Android phone. The process is simple. You place your iPhone next to a new Android device. A prompt will appear to start the transfer.
You can choose what to move. This includes photos, text messages, notes, and saved passwords. Your phone number can also be transferred. The transfer happens directly. You do not need to download a separate app.
Some data will not transfer. This includes health information and Bluetooth pairings. Locked or protected notes will also not move. Google already has a similar tool for moving from Android to iPhone. This makes switching between the two platforms easier in both directions.
Notification Forwarding for Other Wearables
iOS 26.3 adds a setting called “Notification Forwarding.” This lets you send your iPhone’s notifications to a third-party wearable. For example, you could send alerts to an Android smartwatch.
You can find this in Settings > Notifications > Notification Forwarding. Apple states you can only forward to one device at a time. If you enable it for a third-party watch, your Apple Watch will stop getting notifications.
This feature is currently available only in the European Union. It addresses legal complaints about Apple limiting access for other wearable devices.
Updated Weather Wallpaper Options
Apple has updated the lock screen customization menu. “Weather” now has its own section. It was previously grouped with “Astronomy.”
There are three new pre-designed weather wallpapers. Each has a different font style for the clock. They also include different weather widgets. This gives users clearer examples of how to use dynamic weather backgrounds.
Device Compatibility and Release Date
The iOS 26.3 beta 1 is available for all iPhones that can run iOS 26. This includes models from the iPhone XS and newer.
The final public version of iOS 26.3 is expected in late January. Apple will likely release more beta versions with additional changes before then.
Looking for More Features?
This list covers the main changes found in the first beta. More features may be discovered in later beta versions. If you know of something we missed, please share it in the comments below.