Apple’s next software update for iPhones – iOS 26.3 is expected to launch in early next year. The update is still under testing and is expected to come with some major improvements like a new Transfer to Android system, expanded notifications and wearable support in Europe and more. Here’s everything we know about iOS 26.3 so far
iOS 26.3: Expected features
With iOS 26.3, Apple is expected to improve data transfer between iPhones and Android devices through collaboration with Google. The update will allow users to move apps, emails, and photos more easily, making it simpler for people switching between the two platforms.In Europe, Apple is said to expand notification support for some third-party smartwatches. While iPhones will be able to work with non-Apple wearables, users will not be able to connect an Apple Watch and a third-party smartwatch at the same time. Apple is also expected to introduce a new Black Unity wallpaper ahead of Black History Month.The update is also expected to bring changes to near-field communication (NFC) and Wi-Fi features in Europe. iOS 26.3 may include updated NFC components that allow better connections with third-party devices. In addition, Apple is expected to enable a faster Wi-Fi radio to improve peer-to-peer sharing between devices.“European users will also get new NFC components to handle third-party device connections and a faster Wi-Fi radio for peer-to-peer sharing. Other Apple users won’t see these features as they’re byproducts of the European Parliament’s Digital Marketing Act (DMA) of 2022 that also prompted Apple’s switch from lightning ports to USB-C charging,” a BGR report said.These Europe-specific updates are linked to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires large technology companies to open up certain system features. The same regulations previously led Apple to replace its Lightning charging port with USB-C on newer iPhone models.
iOS 26.3: Expected release timeline
iOS 17.3 followed in late January 2024 with added Apple Music collaboration features and AirPlay support for hotel TVs. iOS 18.3 was released in late January 2025 and brought updates to Apple Intelligence features. Based on these previous patterns, iOS 26.3 is expected to launch in late January or early February. As mentioned above, the update is still in beta testing.