iOS 26.3 Beta 1: All new features and functions at a glance

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Apple is currently testing iOS 26.3, the next update in the iOS 26 series. The new version is still in early beta and is expected to be released at the end of January. Because development is taking place over the holidays, iOS 26.3 is smaller than previous updates. Nevertheless, the version includes several important new features, primarily related to device switching, the use of wearables, and customizing the lock screen.

Apple is using iOS 26.3 primarily for targeted improvements rather than major system changes. The focus is on features that simplify everyday life or meet regulatory requirements. The first beta already clearly shows the direction Apple is taking. All currently known features are fully included. Further betas may introduce additional changes.

Easier switching from iPhone to Android

One of the most important new features in iOS 26.3 is a new transfer tool that simplifies switching from an iPhone to an Android smartphone. The process works without an additional app and without a separate download.

To start the transfer, simply place the iPhone and Android device next to each other. Once connected, numerous data files can be transferred directly, including:

Photos
Messages
Notes
Apps
passwords
Telephone numbers
More personal content

Certain data is excluded from transmission. This includes health data, Bluetooth-connected devices, and protected content such as locked notes.

Transferring iOS 26.3 from iPhone to Android — Image: Apfelpatient

Google already offers a similar feature for switching from Android to iOS. With iOS 26.3, a largely bidirectional data transfer process between the two platforms is created for the first time.

Forwarding notifications to third-party wearables

With iOS 26.3, Apple introduces the new "Notification Forwarding" option. This setting can be found in the Settings app under "Notifications".

This feature allows you to forward incoming iPhone notifications to a third-party wearable, such as an Android smartwatch. Apple deliberately limits this feature; notifications can only be forwarded to one device at a time.

iOS 26.3 Notifications — Image: Apfelpatient

If notification forwarding to a third-party wearable is enabled, the Apple Watch will no longer receive notifications. Simultaneous use is not possible.

Apple is introducing this feature to address antitrust complaints demanding equal access to notifications for third-party wearables. For this reason, notification forwarding is only available in the European Union.

New weather wallpapers for the lock screen

iOS 26.3 also brings a change to the lock screen customization. The personalization options now include a dedicated section for weather wallpapers.

Previously, weather and astronomy wallpapers were grouped together in a single category. Apple now clearly separates these types of content.

Currently, three pre-made weather background images are available. They differ, among other things, in:

Different fonts for the time
Different weather widgets
Example layouts for better preview

This makes it clearer how the weather background image can be used in everyday life.

Other known functions

No further new features are currently known for iOS 26.3. Since this is an early beta version, future test releases may include additional adjustments or minor updates.

iOS 26.3 compatibility

iOS 26.3 is compatible with all iPhones that already support iOS 26. There are no new limitations or changed hardware requirements.

Expected release date

Apple is currently planning to release iOS 26.3 towards the end of January. Until then, further beta versions are likely to be released, primarily containing bug fixes and minor improvements.

iOS 26.3 as a targeted interim update

iOS 26.3 is a deliberately small update, but it brings several functional improvements. The simplified switching to Android, the forwarding of notifications to third-party wearables, and the redesigned weather wallpapers show that Apple is specifically addressing existing weaknesses. Even without major new features, iOS 26.3 represents a worthwhile interim update within iOS 26. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Alex_Malt / DepositPhotos.com)