On December 16, Apple officially released the iOS 26.3 Developer Beta for iPhone and iPad users, alongside iPadOS 26.3.
At this stage, iOS 26.3 Beta is available exclusively to registered developers through the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta expected later.
iOS 26.3 Features: What’s New So Far?
So far, Apple has not published detailed official release notes for the first iOS 26.3 Developer Beta. However, based on multiple industry reports and early beta analysis, iOS 26.3 is expected to focus on cross-platform compatibility and ecosystem openness, especially around Android.
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1. Easier Switching Between iOS and Android
One of the most talked-about iOS 26.3 features is a new system-level Android migration tool.
Reportedly part of a cooperation initiative between Apple and Google, this feature aims to make switching between iOS and Android significantly smoother. With iOS 26.3, Apple is testing a built-in data transfer solution that allows users to wirelessly move data when an iPhone and an Android device are placed nearby.
Supported content is expected to include:
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Photos and videos
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Messages
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Contacts
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Account passwords
This improvement directly targets users moving to Android phones from brands like sumsung, lowering the barrier for cross-platform transitions and aligning with growing global regulatory expectations.
2. Notification Forwarding to Third-Party Devices
Another notable change in iOS 26.3 Beta is the introduction of Notification Forwarding.
In supported regions—particularly the European Union—users can now forward iPhone notifications to third-party devices, including smartwatches that are not Apple Watch. The new option appears under:
Settings → Notifications → Notification Forwarding
This update allows notifications to be shared with compatible Android-based wearables, expanding support beyond Apple’s own ecosystem and giving users more flexibility.
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iOS 26.3 Release Date: Beta and Final Version Timeline
Currently, iOS 26.3 remains in Developer Beta 1, with further testing planned before a wider rollout.
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Developer Beta: Available now
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Public Beta: Expected after additional beta iterations via Apple Beta Software Program
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Final Release Date: Likely in early 2026, following the stable rollout of iOS 26.2
Final Thoughts
While iOS 26.3 Beta may appear modest at first glance, its direction is significant. By improving Android data transfer, expanding notification support to third-party devices, and easing transitions for users moving to phones from manufacturers like sumsung, Apple is clearly taking steps toward a more open iOS ecosystem.
As testing continues, more iOS 26.3 features may surface ahead of the official release. For most users, waiting for the public release in early 2026 will be the safest option, while developers can already explore what’s next for iOS.
