Apple today released iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3, the third major updates to the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 operating systems that were released to the public in September 2025. The new updates come almost two months after the release of the iOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 updates.
The new software can be downloaded on compatible iPhones and iPads by going to Settings -> General -> Software Update.
While Apple’s release notes merely says that iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 include unspecified bug fixes and security updates, there are a couple features that Apple didn’t mention.
The update adds a new transfer tool that allows an iPhone user to place their device next to an Android device to initiate a transfer process. Users can opt to move over photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, phone number, and more. However, health data, paired Bluetooth devices, and protected items like locked notes are not transferred over to the new smartphone.
The new tool can be found in the Settings app, under General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Transfer to Android.
In the EU, iOS 26.3 also brings a new “Notification Forwarding” setting that allows incoming notifications on an iPhone to be forwarded to a third-party device. The setting can be found in the Notification section of the Settings app under a new “Notification Forwarding” option. It also adds AirPods-like proximity pairing for third-party accessories like earbuds and smartwatches.
Apple was required to make these changes to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act.