Apple has begun testing iOS 26.3, the next version of iOS 26, which is scheduled for release in January. Because the testing period coincides with the holiday season, this version is a relatively smaller update with fewer features than previous betas. However, it still includes significant improvements that will impact the user experience.
An unexpected move from Apple: Android-friendly features in iOS 26.3
The first notable innovation is a new transfer tool that simplifies the transition to Android. Apple is making it much easier for iPhone users to switch to an Android smartphone. With this new tool, an iPhone user can instantly start the transfer process by placing their device next to an Android device. When the two smartphones are connected, data such as photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, and phone numbers can be transferred without needing to download any additional applications.
Of course, this transfer process has some limitations. Protected items such as health data, Bluetooth-paired devices, and locked notes cannot be transferred to the new device. Considering that Google is also developing a similar feature for data transfer from Android to iPhone, this innovation creates a more reciprocal and transparent transition process between the two platforms.
Another important aspect of the update is the “Notification Forwarding” feature. Added to the Notifications section in the Settings app, this new option allows notifications received on the iPhone to be forwarded to third-party wearable devices such as Android smartwatches. However, Apple states that notifications can only be forwarded to one device at a time; meaning that when this feature is enabled with a third-party device, the Apple Watch stops receiving and displaying notifications. Apple’s move is reportedly a response to antitrust complaints arguing that third-party devices should have the same access rights as the Apple Watch, and the feature will only be available in the European Union.
On the visual side, there are innovations in Lock Screen customizations. The Weather section, previously combined with Astronomy, now has its own category. To help users better see the potential of the feature, three new pre-designed Weather wallpaper options are offered, prepared with different clock fonts and weather widgets. iOS 26.3, compatible with all iPhone models running iOS 26, is expected to be released in late January.
What are your thoughts on these new features; in particular, will the ease of switching to Android be a deciding factor for those considering an ecosystem change?
