iOS 26.3 Beta 1 Features: Everything New in the Latest Update

Apple is pushing forward with iOS 26.3, venturing into another round of updates in its iOS 26 cycle. Although this isn’t as expansive as some past updates, it seems focused on fine-tuning the system and reacting to regulatory demands, leaving major interface changes on the back burner.

This is what’s notable in the iOS 26.3 update so far.

Simplified iPhone to Android Transfers

A standout feature in this iteration is a tool designed to simplify the transfer process from iPhone to Android. Throw away the third-party apps; now, positioning an iPhone near an Android device is all you need to kick off the data transfer.

Users can transfer critical data types such as photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, and phone numbers. However, data from the Health app, Bluetooth connections, and secured items like locked notes stay behind. Google’s similar offering for Android to iPhone transfers makes this a reciprocal feature across both operating systems.

Notification Forwarding for Third-Party Devices

Under Notifications in the Settings app, the new Notification Forwarding feature allows iPhone alerts to be directed to third-party wearables, including Android smartwatches.

There is a limitation: only one device can receive notifications at any time. Once a third-party wearable is set up to receive them, Apple Watch notifications get temporarily switched off.

This adjustment from Apple seems aimed at easing antitrust scrutiny over platform exclusivity, which is why currently, it’s only available in the European Union. It aligns third-party wearables’ notification capabilities with those experienced by Apple Watch users.

Standalone Weather Wallpapers Category

In iOS 26.3, Weather wallpapers finally have a dedicated category when customizing the Lock Screen.

Previously lumped with the Astronomy group, they now stand alone, featuring three pre-set styles. Each design comes with varying clock fonts and Weather widgets, giving users a clearer preview of how dynamic Weather wallpapers enhance customization on the Lock Screen.

Compatibility and Availability

iOS 26.3 maintains compatibility with all devices supporting iOS 26.

Following the mid-December release of iOS 26.2, the public rollout of iOS 26.3 is anticipated for late January.

Have you spotted anything in the iOS 26.3 Beta 1 that we haven’t covered? Share your discoveries in the comments!