Switching From iPhone to Android Just Got Easy
Apple has released the first iOS 26.3 Beta, and it brings a surprising shift in strategy. The update focuses on breaking long-standing platform barriers. Most importantly, it makes switching from iPhone to Android far easier than before.
This move signals stronger cooperation between Apple and Google. It also shows Apple responding to regulatory pressure and user demand.
iOS 26.3 Beta Introduces Easy iPhone to Android Switching
The standout feature in iOS 26.3 Beta is the new “Transfer to Android” system. This tool helps users move from an iPhone to an Android phone smoothly.
Apple built the system in collaboration with Google. As a result, both platforms now support direct device-to-device transfers.
Users simply place their Android phone near the iPhone. Then, the transfer begins wirelessly. Photos, messages, notes, apps, and settings move across in one process. Even the phone number transfers automatically.
However, Apple limits some data movement. Health data, locked notes, Bluetooth pairings, and sensitive information stay behind. Apple says more data types may arrive during future beta updates.
Notification Forwarding Brings Support for Third-Party Smartwatches
iOS 26.3 Beta also adds Notification Forwarding for non-Apple wearables. This feature lets iPhone notifications appear on third-party smartwatches.
Apple allows forwarding to only one accessory at a time. Meanwhile, notifications stop appearing on Apple Watch when forwarding is active.
The feature currently works only in the European Union. Apple is preparing for upcoming Digital Markets Act rules. These rules require broader device compatibility.
Apple maintains that notification sharing raises privacy concerns. Still, compliance is now mandatory in the EU.
Wallpaper Menu Gets a Small but Useful Refresh
Apple has also refined the wallpaper experience. iOS 26.3 splits Weather and Astronomy wallpapers into separate sections.
While the visuals remain familiar, navigation feels clearer. Additionally, Apple has added new pre-built Weather wallpapers. These still reflect live weather conditions. Meanwhile, Astronomy wallpapers continue showing real-time planetary positioning.
iOS 26.3 Release Timeline
Apple is expected to release iOS 26.3 publicly in late January. Previous x.3 updates also launched around the same time.
More features may appear as beta testing continues. For now, iOS 26.3 focuses on connectivity, compliance, and user flexibility.
