The iOS 26.3 update introduces several new features, interface changes, and bug fixes. Before we dive into the update’s news, we remind you thatthe new Siri will not debut in the upcoming software version (26.4) as recently indicated. You’ll probably have to wait at least until May, with the release of version 26.5.
All the new features of iOS 26.3
Moving on to the additions in iOS 26.3, now within the cellular settings, an option has been added to prevent your carrier from seeing the device’s exact location of the device, providing instead only an approximate estimate. At launch, this feature is limited to some carriers (such as Boost Mobile in the USA) and to specific models like iPhone Air, iPhone 16e and iPad Pro M5.
There is now a new option in Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone that allows you to transfer data directly to a Android device simply by bringing the two phones close together and scanning a QR code.
The system lays the groundwork for end-to-end encryption in RCS messages with Android users. This will support the RCS 3.0 profile, which includes iMessage-like features such as editing messages, inline replies and full tapback reactions.
We also have the ability to forward notifications to non-Apple wearables, a feature that brings various improvements to the user experience. The flip side is the ability to forward notifications to a single device at a time. Still, at the moment it seems the feature is not yet available for everyone, but should arrive with a subsequent update.
The Weather and Astronomy sections have been separated: now there are three different styles for live weather lock screens, each with a different font for the clock. Regarding the Music app, several visual tweaks have been made: the header text is now larger and left-aligned instead of centered. Sections like “For You” are bolder and the backgrounds behind some text have been removed for a cleaner look.
New features for the European Union are coming: third-party accessories (such as earbuds or smartwatches) can now display the quick pairing pop-up typical of AirPods and AirTag when they are unboxed. Also in the EU, a “notifications forwarding” feature has been added for third-party smartwatches, allowing them to receive alerts similarly to the Apple Watch.
Given the recent launch of Cupertino’s new tracker, iOS 26.3 adds official support for the second generation AirTag.
As usual, there are several bug fixes: the sporadic CarPlay disconnections reported in earlier versions seem to have been resolved, as well as the small visual glitch in the Music app while scrolling the “Now Playing” screen. Finally, there are also some improvements in keyboard accuracy.
