1. Native Transfer to Android Tool
iOS 26.3 beta introduces a built‑in Android transfer feature straight from iphone settings — no separate apps required. Users can now wirelessly move photos, messages, notes, apps and even their phone number to an Android device by placing the two phones close together. This makes switching between platforms far easier than before.
2. Simplified Setup in Settings
You’ll find the Android transfer option under:
Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iphone → Transfer to Android — guiding you through a secure, local Wi‑Fi + Bluetooth transfer session.
3. Expanded Third‑Party Wearable Support (EU Only)
iOS 26.3 adds a “Notification Forwarding” setting that allows iPhone notifications to be shown on third‑party smartwatches and wearables — such as a Galaxy watch or other non‑Apple devices. (Note: This is currently limited to the European Union to comply with regulations.)
4. Proximity Pairing for Non‑Apple Accessories
In the EU variant of the update, non‑Apple earbuds and accessories may support proximity pairing — a pop‑up pairing experience similar to AirPods when devices are placed near your iPhone.
5. Better Cross‑Platform Interoperability
The Android transfer tool is part of a broader push to bridge iphone and Android ecosystems. Both apple and google have worked toward making cross‑platform moves less painful.
6. New Notification Controls
The Notification Forwarding feature lets you choose one wearable device to receive alerts directly from your iPhone. If this is enabled, notifications won’t go to an apple watch simultaneously.
7. Extra Privacy and UX Improvements
Alongside these big changes, the beta also adds new location privacy controls, and small cosmetic tweaks such as reorganised wallpaper categories, dynamic Weather wallpapers, and other UI refinements.
📅 Release Notes & Availability
- The iOS 26.3 update is still in beta and expected to roll out publicly in early 2026 after testing.
- Beta versions are best tried on a secondary device to avoid issues on your primary phone.
💡 In summary: The iOS 26.3 beta marks a notable shift in Apple’s approach to ecosystem flexibility — making it easier than ever to switch to Android and opening up support for third‑party wearables, especially under new EU interoperability rules.
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