iOS 26.3 launches: Android transfer gets easier, location privacy improves

Apple finally makes switching from iPhone to Android dead simple with iOS 26.3's new direct transfer tool. Just place devices together and move photos, messages, and apps without extra downloads. Privacy controls and security fixes included.

Photo by Lee Peterson / Unsplash

iOS 26.3 launched today with Apple's most user-friendly approach to platform switching yet — direct iPhone-to-Android transfers without downloading extra apps. As reported by MacRumors, this February 2026 update also introduces dedicated Weather wallpapers and privacy controls that limit carrier location tracking for newer iPhone models.

iPhone to Android transfer gets stupidly simple

The standout feature is Apple's new transfer tool, which lets you place your iPhone next to an Android device to start moving data. Photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, and your phone number all transfer directly between devices.

The thing is, this works both ways now. Google implemented the reverse process too, so moving between platforms no longer requires hunting down manufacturer apps or wrestling with third-party solutions. Health data and locked notes stay behind, but everything else makes the jump.

This matters because Apple's finally admitting people might want to leave. The company that once made platform switching deliberately painful is now smoothing the exit ramp.

Weather wallpapers get their own category

Apple split Weather out from the combined Weather and Astronomy section in Lock Screen customisation. You now get three pre-designed Weather wallpapers with different fonts and widgets that show actual weather conditions.

It's a small change, but one that makes sense given how popular dynamic wallpapers have become. The iPhone Air and other recent models handle these animated wallpapers without the battery drain that plagued earlier versions.

Location privacy controls for newer iPhones

iOS 26.3 adds a 'Limit Precise Location' setting that restricts how much location data carriers can access. Instead of pinpointing your exact street address, networks only see your general neighbourhood.

The catch: this only works with C1 and C1X modems found in the iPhone 16e and iPhone Air. Carrier support is also limited — Boost Mobile in the US, EE and BT in the UK, Telekom in Germany, and AIS and True in Thailand currently offer it.

No word yet on support from the UAE carrier, leaving Etisalat and du users waiting to see if this privacy feature reaches the region.

EU users get wearable freedom (eventually)

Apple tested two EU-specific features in the iOS 26.3 beta: Notification Forwarding to third-party wearables and Proximity Pairing for non-Apple accessories. Both address European antitrust complaints about Apple Watch exclusivity.

The company may have delayed these to iOS 26.4, but when they arrive, Android smartwatch users in Europe will finally get iPhone notifications. The rest of us are still locked into Apple's ecosystem.

Security fixes you actually need

iOS 26.3 patches dozens of vulnerabilities, including one actively exploited bug in the dyld dynamic link editor that allowed arbitrary code execution. Apple describes this as part of an 'extremely sophisticated attack' against targeted individuals.

Other fixes address CoreAudio crashes from malicious media files, Game Center information leaks, Messages sandbox bypasses, and Lock Screen photo access vulnerabilities.

The iOS 26.1 update was significant for features, but this one's essential for security.

How to get iOS 26.3

iOS 26.3 is available now as a free update. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install.

The update works on all devices that support iOS 26, though newer features like location privacy controls require compatible hardware and carrier support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main new features in iOS 26.3?

iOS 26.3 introduces direct iPhone to Android data transfer, a dedicated Weather wallpaper section, and location privacy controls for compatible devices. It also includes critical security fixes.

How does the iPhone to Android transfer work in iOS 26.3?

Place your iPhone next to an Android device to initiate direct transfer of photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, and phone numbers. No separate apps required.

Which devices support the Limit Precise Location feature?

Only iPhone 16e and iPhone Air with C1/C1X modems support this feature, and it requires carrier support. Currently limited to select carriers in US, UK, Germany, and Thailand.

Are there security updates in iOS 26.3?

Yes, iOS 26.3 fixes dozens of security vulnerabilities including one actively exploited bug. Apple recommends all users update immediately to protect against known threats.

Do UAE carriers support the new location privacy feature?

No information yet on Etisalat or du support for the Limit Precise Location feature. This remains limited to select international carriers for now.

Are the EU wearable features available globally?

No, Notification Forwarding and Proximity Pairing for third-party wearables are EU-only features designed to address European antitrust complaints about Apple Watch exclusivity.