iOS 26.3 could arrive in early 2026: All features to expect

iOS 26

Apple’s next incremental software update for iPhones, iOS 26.3, is shaping up to be a meaningful release rather than a routine bug-fix patch. While it will not introduce a major redesign like iOS 26, the update is expected to focus on system-level improvements, regulatory compliance in Europe, and smoother cross-platform experiences.

One of the most notable changes expected in iOS 26.3 is an improved data transfer system between iPhones and Android devices. Apple is reportedly working with Google to make switching between platforms less painful. The updated transfer process is expected to allow users to move apps, emails, photos, and other personal data more easily when changing devices. This would mark a significant improvement over the current setup, which often relies on third-party tools and incomplete migrations.

Another major focus area is wearable compatibility in Europe. Apple is expected to expand notification support for third-party smartwatches, allowing iPhone users to receive notifications on non-Apple wearables more reliably. However, the system will still come with limitations. Users will not be able to connect an Apple Watch and a third-party smartwatch simultaneously, reinforcing Apple’s preference for keeping its own ecosystem tightly integrated.

Alongside these functional changes, Apple is also expected to introduce a new Black Unity wallpaper timed around Black History Month. These wallpapers have become a regular annual release and typically arrive through a point update rather than a major iOS launch.

Europe-specific changes are likely to be a defining theme of iOS 26.3. The update is expected to introduce revised near-field communication components that improve how iPhones interact with third-party devices. This could enable broader NFC-based use cases beyond Apple’s own services, particularly for payments, access control, and accessories. Apple is also tipped to enable a faster Wi-Fi radio in Europe to improve peer-to-peer sharing between devices, making features like local file transfers quicker and more reliable.

According to a report by BGR, these changes are not being rolled out globally by choice. Instead, they are the result of regulatory pressure from the European Union. The Digital Markets Act requires large technology companies to open up certain platform features that were previously restricted. This same legislation was a key factor behind Apple’s move from the Lightning port to USB-C charging on newer iPhone models.

As a result, users outside Europe are unlikely to see these NFC and Wi-Fi enhancements in iOS 26.3. Apple typically limits such changes to regions where it is legally required to implement them, keeping its global software experience more uniform elsewhere.

When it comes to timing, Apple’s recent update history offers useful clues. iOS 17.3 arrived in late January 2024 and introduced Apple Music collaboration features and AirPlay support for hotel televisions. iOS 18.3 followed in late January 2025 with updates focused on Apple Intelligence capabilities. Based on this pattern, iOS 26.3 is widely expected to launch in late January or early February 2026.

At present, the update remains in beta testing, and Apple has not officially confirmed its feature list or release date. As with all pre-release software, some features could change, be delayed, or remain limited to specific regions. Even so, iOS 26.3 is shaping up to be a strategically important update, especially for users in Europe and those considering a switch between Android and iPhone.