Apple’s new surprise update for the iPhone: iOS 26.3 has arrived

This version, which includes innovative tests such as iOS 26.3 (a) y (b)represents a step forward in Apple’s strategy to deliver security patches more quickly and discreetlywithout the need for major updates. Although still in beta, the emphasis on tools like Background Security Improvements suggests a commitment to user protection in an increasingly vulnerable digital landscape.

The announcement comes at a key moment, just after iOS 26.2 in Decemberand aligns with Apple’s historical patterns for its .3 updates, which They tend to prioritize subtle refinements over revolutions. With compatibility from the iPhone 11 onwards, this surprise not only addresses regulatory needs in regions such as the European Union, but It also facilitates transitions between ecosystems, such as the move from iPhone to Android.

One of the most notable new features of iOS 26.3 is iPhone to Android data transfer toolwhich simplifies the wireless migration process. By placing the iPhone next to an Android device, Users can transfer photos, messages, notes, apps and phone numbers seamlessly. This function, accessible in Settings > General > Transfer Reset iPhone > Transfer to Androidis available globally and responds to growing demands for interoperability in a market dominated by competitors such as Google.

In the field of notifications, especially for the European marketiOS 26.3 introduces Notification Forwardingcomplying with the EU Digital Markets Act. This feature allows you to send alerts to third-party accessories, such as headphones or non-Apple smart watches, with pairing similar to that of AirPods. However, It can only be activated for one accessory at a time and disables notifications on Apple Watch while in use.

iOS 26.3 Beta 2 Brings couple of changes. With the first Beta, Apple included a new feature “Forward Notification”.

But with the iOS 26.3 Beta 2 removed that feature for all but not for EU region. It is for EU region. pic.twitter.com/FhgVUR3Xdn

— the iOS guy (@theiosguy101) January 13, 2026

Visual customizations also get attention in this update. It is added a section dedicated to Weather wallpaperswith three preset options activated by long-pressing on the lock screen, tapping the plus sign, and selecting presets. Furthermore, in anticipation of “Black History Month” (Black History Month) in February, Apple includes the 2026 edition of the Black Unity fundcontinuing an annual tradition that promotes diversity through design.

The heart of the “surprise” lies in Security Improvements in the Backgroundan evolution of iOS 16’s Rapid Security Response system. Introduced in iOS 26.1 but not widely deployed, This mechanism allows for small, quick security updates to components like Safari and WebKit, without breaking user flow..

The betas iOS 26.3 (a) and (b), released on January 6 and 8, 2026 respectively, are purely for testing and do not include real fixes.

To install these betas, users must go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Background Security Enhancements. If automatic installation is disabled, you can check in Settings > Software Update. Once applied, it appears in Settings > General > Information.

Apple emphasizes that Users who choose not to automatically install will receive these improvements in standard updates, ensuring flexibility. Experts highlight that This could usher in risk-free urgent patchespotentially reaching the general public in late January or early February.

iOS 26.3 Beta 2 is here! What’s new?! pic.twitter.com/szH1WW2DJg

— Andrew Clare (@andrewjclare) January 12, 2026

Compared to previous versions, iOS 26.3 remains in the minor updates profile, similar to iOS 15.3 to 18.3prioritizing compliance and refinements over big changes.

After iOS 26.2, which brought customizations to Liquid Glass and CarPlay, This beta 2.2 doesn’t introduce any notable performance fixes, but it paves the way for iOS 26.4, which could include an improved Siri. For millions of iPhone 11 users onwards, this surprise reinforces the robustness of iOS, although its real impact will depend on the final version.