Thu Dec 18 05:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Apple’s iOS 26.3 Beta Arrives, Prioritizing Android Interoperability and Third-Party Wearable Support

CUPERTINO, CA – Apple has released the first beta of iOS 26.3, showcasing a significant push towards greater interoperability with Android devices and support for third-party smartwatches. The update introduces a streamlined “Transfer to Android” system, developed in collaboration with Google, making it easier for iPhone users to switch to the competing platform.

The new “Transfer to Android” system allows users to wirelessly transfer photos, messages, notes, apps, and phone numbers to their new Android device, by placing the devices near each other. While sensitive data like Health information and locked notes won’t initially be transferred, Apple and Google have indicated plans to add more data types during the beta testing phase.

In response to upcoming Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations in the European Union, iOS 26.3 also brings “Notification Forwarding” to non-Apple smartwatches. This feature enables iPhone notifications to be displayed on third-party wearables, though users must choose between their Apple Watch and the alternate device. Apple, while complying with the regulations, has expressed concerns about potential privacy implications.

Beyond these major changes, iOS 26.3 introduces minor refinements to the Wallpapers menu, splitting the existing “Weather and Astronomy” category into two distinct sections and adding new pre-built Weather wallpapers that reflect live local conditions.

While iOS 26.3 appears to be a smaller update compared to its predecessor, iOS 26.2, further features and changes may be introduced during the beta testing period. The full release is expected in late January, following the release patterns of previous updates.

Apple encourages users to share any newly discovered features or changes in the comments section as the beta program progresses.

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