iOS 26.3 is here: This change streamlines switching from iPhone to Android
iOS 26.3 is here: This change streamlines switching from iPhone to Android
Publish Date: 2026-02-11 14:42:00
Source Domain: www.tomsguide.com
Apple has officially released iOS 26.3 to eligible iPhone owners. Apple beta-tested the latest update for a while, and now it’s ready to go. The biggest feature coming is one that will benefit people looking to switch from iPhone to Android, as it makes data transfer easier.
Google and Apple have agreed to make switching between platforms less painful, which benefits consumers. Any time we see big companies work together to improve outcomes for the average phone owner, we’re happy.
iOS 26.3 new features
As mentioned, the big new thing in this iOS version is the option to transfer your data to Android. Under the Settings app, you’ll see an option titled Transfer to Android.
You may like
Once opened, you’ll place your old iPhone next to your new Android phone, and it’ll transfer apps, photos, messages, and the phone number. Rather than jumping through hoops and using third-party apps, this new method streamlines everything.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
It’s worth noting that health data, Bluetooth devices and other protected items won’t transfer over, but it’s still a big step in the right direction.
The other major update concerns how notifications work with third-party smartwatches. In the Settings app, you’ll need to head to Notifications, and you will see an option to tweak whether notifications can be displayed on a non-Apple device.
Another minor change is that Weather wallpapers have their own dedicated section with three preset options.
Here are some other small changed discovered in the final update:
- Support for encrypted RCS messages
- Enhanced location privacy for newer Apple devices
- Pairing non-Apple accessories faster and easier (EU only)
Where’s the new Siri?
If you’re waiting for iPhone to get its new Siri-powered brain, you’ll have to wait until iOS 26.4, as this update doesn’t feature the new AI-powered assistant. We don’t have a release date for that version, but…
