Katarzyna Petru
Apple has released iOS 26.3, an update that mainly focuses on fixing bugs and security issues, but it also introduces features that clearly go beyond the previous philosophy of a closed ecosystem. The biggest novelty is the easier transfer of data from iPhone to Android. There is also support for forwarding notifications to third-party devices and new options related to location privacy. The update does not bring a visual revolution, but it changes Apple's approach to interoperability. It's a step that could have greater strategic significance than technical.
Easier Migration to Android
The most notable change is the “transfer to Android” feature, allowing users to transfer photos, messages, notes, apps, and phone numbers to an Android smartphone. However, Apple does not allow the export of sensitive data, such as information from the Health app or Bluetooth pairing details. The mechanism is based on the AppMigrationKit framework, which enables applications to export and import data between platforms. On the Android side, support for the Data Transfer API in Android 16 is required, meaning that the availability of the feature also depends on device manufacturers.
Notifications go beyond the Apple ecosystem
A new feature, particularly significant in the context of European regulations, is “notification forwarding”. This feature allows notifications from the iPhone to be forwarded to third-party accessories, including Wear OS watches from Google. The user can choose which apps will send alerts to the external device. Currently, however, the system only allows notifications to be forwarded to one device at a time, which excludes simultaneous use of the ChooseTV.
New location privacy option
In selected models, there is a switch “limit precise location”, which restricts the accuracy of location data sent to the cellular operator. This feature works on devices with Apple C1 and C1X modems, such as iPhone Air and iPhone 16e. In the USA, it is currently supported only by the Boost Mobile network. Older models with Qualcomm or Intel modems do not offer this option.
The rest of the systems without major changes
Updates for macOS 26 Tahoe, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3, and HomePod software mainly focus on stability and performance improvements. The beta versions indicate future support for the M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips, which may herald new Mac computers. More significant changes are expected to come with iOS 26.4, where the debut of the new Siri based on Gemini models is anticipated.
iOS 26.3 is a calm update in terms of visuals but significant strategically. Apple is starting to more clearly open its system to collaboration with devices outside its own ecosystem, making it easier to migrate to Android and integrate with accessories from other manufacturers. This is a signal that interoperability is becoming as important as control over the platform. Bigger innovations will likely come with the next version of the system.
source: apple
