Apple rolls out iOS 26.3 with new features, security fixes: How to update

Apple rolls out iOS 26.3 with new weather wallpapers, iPhone-to-Android transfer tool, proximity pairing in the EU, and key security patches. Check eligible iPhones and update steps

Apple has rolled out the iOS 26.3 update for supported iPhone models, introducing a range of new features and refinements across system apps and core experiences, along with security patches. The update adds improvements to the wallpaper gallery, a tool for transitioning from an iPhone to an Android device, a notification forwarding feature on third-party accessories, and more. Here’s a complete look at what the latest iOS update brings to iPhones:

Apple iOS 26.3 features: What’s new for iPhones

According to Apple’s official release notes, the iOS 26.3 update includes the following additions and changes: 

Transfer from iPhone to Android: The updated iOS 26.3 adds support for a smoother iOS-to-Android switching experience. The feature lets users place their iPhone near an Android device to start the transfer. After the two devices are connected, users can select data such as photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, contacts and more to move across. Health information, Bluetooth-connected devices and secure content such as locked notes are not carried over to the new device. 

 

New weather wallpapers: Apple has updated the iPhone’s wallpaper gallery with a separate Weather section. Earlier combined under “Weather & Astronomy”, the two categories now appear as individual rows. The update brings three new weather-themed wallpapers, each supporting live updates that mirror real-time conditions based on the user’s current location, along with varied font styles and weather widgets.  ALSO READ: Elon Musk restructures xAI's teams following co-founders' departure 

Limit precise location: Apple’s iPhones powered by its in-house modem — such as the iPhone 16e and iPhone Air — are getting a new “Limit precise location” feature with iOS 26.3. The option is designed to restrict the level of location data shared with mobile carriers, enhancing user privacy. It will be available only on supported networks, which currently include Boost Mobile in the US, Telekom in Germany, and EE and BT in the UK, among others. 

Proximity pairing (EU only): Apple has added Europe-only changes for third-party wearables, which were shared by the European Commission. Devices such as headphones and smartwatches can use some of the same functionality available to AirPods and the Apple Watch going forward. Proximity pairing allows third-party devices to pair with an iOS device in an AirPods-like one-tap way by bringing an accessory close to an iPhone or an iPad. 

Security updates: iOS 26.3 addresses dozens of security vulnerabilities, including one that had been actively exploited. As reported by MacRumors, Apple said a flaw in the dyld dynamic link editor could allow arbitrary code execution and may have been used in an “extremely sophisticated attack” on targeted individuals running versions before iOS 26. The update also patches issues in CoreAudio, Game Center, Messages and Photos, which could have led to app crashes, exposure of sensitive information, sandbox bypass, or unauthorised access to photos from the Lock Screen. 

iOS 26.3 eligible iPhone models

• iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air
• iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e
• iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

How to update to iOS 26.3

• Go to Settings.
• Tap on General and go to the “Software Update” section.
• If the update is available, your iPhone will display the option to Download and Install. Tap on it to begin the process.
• Once the download is complete, you will have the option to update immediately, install later, or select “Remind Me Later”.
• Tap on Install to update immediately or choose another option according to your preference.
• If prompted, enter your passcode to proceed.