iOS 26.3 Update: New Features, Android Transfer, Privacy Controls & EU Changes Explained

iOS 26.3 Changes and Features - What's New?

• iOS 26.3 makes switching from iPhone to Android easier than ever.
• New privacy setting limits carrier location tracking on select devices.
• Major security fixes included as Apple prepares for iOS 26.4 and smarter Siri.

Apple has officially released iOS 26.3, alongside iPadOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3.

While this update focuses largely on bug fixes, security patches, and stability improvements, it also introduces meaningful upgrades in cross-platform data transfer, privacy controls, and European Union interoperability features.

Although iOS 26.3 is not as feature-heavy as previous versions like iOS 26.1 or 26.2, it plays a critical role in strengthening security and preparing the foundation for the highly anticipated iOS 26.4 update, which is rumored to introduce a more advanced Siri powered by Google’s Gemini AI.

Easier iPhone to Android Data Transfer

One of the most talked-about additions in iOS 26.3 is the new “Transfer to Android” feature, designed to simplify the process of moving from an iPhone to an Android device.

Instead of relying entirely on separate apps like Apple’s Move to iOS or Google’s transfer tools, users can now place an iPhone next to a compatible Android phone to begin the migration process.

Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network with Bluetooth enabled.
A QR code appears, allowing users to securely initiate the transfer.

Supported data includes:

Photos
Messages
Notes
Apps
Passwords
Phone number
Mail accounts
Voice memos
WhatsApp content

However, several limitations remain.
According to MacRumors and Ars Technica, Health data, Bluetooth pairing information, locked notes, and certain protected content will not transfer.

Ars Technica notes that the process likely depends on Apple’s AppMigrationKit framework (introduced in iOS 26.1) and Google’s Data Transfer API in Android 16 QPR2, meaning compatibility may depend on whether Android manufacturers adopt the required update.

This move signals growing cross-platform cooperation between Apple and Google, even if Apple still hopes most users move to iPhone rather than away from it.

New “Limit Precise Location” Privacy Setting

Privacy gets a notable boost with Limit Precise Location, a feature that restricts how accurately cellular carriers can determine your location.

Instead of pinpointing your exact street address, carriers will only see an approximate neighborhood-level location.

Important details:

Only works on devices with Apple’s C1 or C1X modems
Currently supported on iPhone 16e and iPhone Air
Ars Technica also mentions the M5 iPad Pro
Not available on iPhones using Qualcomm or Intel modems

Carrier support is limited.
According to the sources, availability currently includes:

Boost Mobile (United States)
EE and BT (United Kingdom)
Telekom (Germany)
AIS and True (Thailand)

To enable it:
Settings → Cellular → Mobile Data Options → Toggle “Limit Precise Location” (restart required).

BGR reports that support is expected to expand with future devices such as the iPhone 17e and iPhone 18 lineup.

European Union–Only Features

iOS 26.3 includes several features designed to comply with EU regulations, many focused on improving interoperability with third-party devices.

1. Proximity Pairing for Third-Party Devices

Third-party headphones and wearables can now pair with iPhones in an AirPods-style “bring near to connect” experience.

2. Notification Forwarding (Beta / EU Only)

This feature allows iPhone notifications to be forwarded to third-party smartwatches, including Android-based Wear OS devices.

However:

Only one device can receive notifications at a time
Enabling forwarding disables Apple Watch notifications
MacRumors reports it may have been delayed to iOS 26.4
Apple has until June 1 to fully implement this change

3. Expanded NFC Access

Developers in the EU can now use NFC functionality inside their own apps for payments, instead of relying solely on Apple Wallet.

4. Improved Device Communication

Apple is opening up certain data transfer capabilities, potentially allowing non-Apple devices to integrate with features similar to AirDrop or AirPlay in the future.

These changes are widely seen as responses to antitrust and regulatory requirements in the European Union.

Weather Wallpaper Update

iOS 26.3 separates Weather and Astronomy wallpapers into distinct categories in the Lock Screen customization menu.

Three pre-designed Weather wallpapers are now available, each with different font styles and widget arrangements.

While this is a minor interface adjustment, it reflects Apple’s continued refinement of personalization options.

Security Fixes and System Improvements

Security is one of the most important aspects of iOS 26.3.

According to MacRumors, Apple fixed dozens of vulnerabilities, including one in the dyld dynamic link editor that may have been used in a “highly sophisticated attack” targeting specific individuals.

Other patched issues include vulnerabilities in:

CoreAudio
Game Center
Messages
Photos (including a potential Lock Screen exposure issue)

Apple strongly recommends updating immediately, as publicly disclosed vulnerabilities may attract exploitation attempts.

Additionally, beta versions referenced M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips, hinting at upcoming Mac hardware refreshes.

What’s Next: iOS 26.4 and Smarter Siri

Multiple sources suggest that iOS 26.4 could be significantly more impactful.

Ars Technica reports that Apple’s next update may introduce a more intelligent Siri powered by Google’s Gemini language models, replacing earlier speculation around OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

The update is expected around April, with beta testing likely beforehand.

If true, this could mark a major shift in Apple’s AI strategy.

Conclusion

iOS 26.3 may not be a flashy update filled with dramatic redesigns, but it quietly delivers meaningful progress in three key areas: cross-platform flexibility, enhanced privacy, and stronger security.

By simplifying iPhone-to-Android transfers, limiting carrier-level location tracking, and opening parts of its ecosystem to third-party devices—especially in the European Union—Apple is signaling a shift toward greater interoperability while maintaining its security-first philosophy.

At the same time, this update lays the groundwork for iOS 26.4, which could redefine Siri and Apple Intelligence in the months ahead.

In short, iOS 26.3 is less about excitement—and more about foundation, protection, and preparation for what comes next.

Key Points

New built-in iPhone to Android transfer tool
Carrier location privacy toggle for select devices
EU-only interoperability features expand third-party access
Dozens of security vulnerabilities fixed
Signs of upcoming M5 chip support
iOS 26.4 expected to bring smarter Siri with Gemini AI

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is iOS 26.3 a major update?
No. It focuses mainly on security fixes and stability improvements, with a few new features.

Can I transfer Health data to Android?
No. Health data and certain protected items do not transfer.

Which iPhones support Limit Precise Location?
Currently devices with Apple’s C1 or C1X modem, such as iPhone 16e and iPhone Air.

Is Notification Forwarding available worldwide?
No. It is limited to the European Union and may still be in beta.

When is iOS 26.4 expected?
Sources suggest around April, with beta versions possibly arriving earlier.

Sources

BGR – Overview of iOS 26.3 features and EU-specific additions
https://www.bgr.com/2099135/ios-26-3-new-features-now-available/
MacRumors – Detailed feature breakdown and security fixes
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-26-3-features/
Ars Technica – Analysis of interoperability updates and Android transfer system
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/02/apple-releases-ios-26-3-with-updates-that-mainly-benefit-non-apple-devices/

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