Apple's iOS 26.3 beta introduces a built-in Android transfer tool developed with Google, allowing wireless data migration between platforms. The update arrives in February 2026 following third beta testing that began in late January.
Users can move photos, messages, notes, apps, and phone numbers by placing an iPhone near an Android device. Health data, Bluetooth pairings, and locked notes remain excluded for now, though Apple and Google plan to expand supported data types as testing continues.
iOS 26.3 adds "Limit Precise Location" privacy controls that restrict cellular carrier tracking to neighborhood-level accuracy instead of street addresses. The feature requires Apple's C1 or C1X modem hardware, limiting it to iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and cellular M5 iPad Pro models.
Carrier support currently includes Boost Mobile in the US, EE and BT in the UK, Telekom Germany, and AIS and True in Thailand. Apple confirms the setting doesn't affect emergency responder location accuracy or signal quality.
European Union users gain notification forwarding to third-party smartwatches and wearables, complying with Digital Markets Act requirements. The feature allows one accessory at a time and temporarily disables Apple Watch notifications when enabled.
EU-specific additions include AirPods-style proximity pairing for third-party accessories, expanded NFC access beyond Wallet, and high-bandwidth peer-to-peer Wi-Fi capabilities. These changes support the Android transfer system and broader accessory compatibility.
The wallpaper gallery separates Weather and Astronomy sections, adding live weather configurations with different widget and font style presets. A Black Unity wallpaper is expected with the stable release.
RCS messaging groundwork appears in beta files with a "SupportsE2EE" toggle for end-to-end encryption across platforms. This infrastructure supports Universal Profile 3.0 standards while maintaining Apple's privacy principles.
Beta testers report battery life improvements reaching 7-9 hours of screen-on time on devices that previously achieved less.
Some Continuity features break in beta 3 on newer devices, including iPhone Mirroring and AirPlay to Apple TV 4K.
Apple plans public release in February 2026 through Software Update in Settings, with worldwide rollout over several days. The update focuses on interoperability between Apple and third-party devices while enhancing privacy controls.
