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Apple has officially released iOS 26.3, which brings performance improvements, security patches, and minor feature enhancements. The tech giant revealed that these fixes improve overall stability and security, highlighting the importance of updating promptly. This upgrade also makes the switch from Apple to Android devices easier.
The latest version of iOS addresses many security vulnerabilities across core components such as WebKit, IOMobileFrameBuffer, kernel, and Bluetooth. iOS 26.3 has repaired a number of risks for memory corruption, out-of-bounds execution, and privilege escalation. The upgrade would allow for the execution of arbitrary code, potentially giving access to users’ systems.
The update also allows users to transfer data while setting up their new device from another iOS device. This includes transferring photos, text messages, notes, apps, passwords, and phone number information, without downloading third-party apps from Apple or Google.
iOS 26.3 features a new setting that allows users to limit carrier location tracking. This option is currently supported by only a few carriers. In the United States, Boost Mobile supports it. In the UK, EE and BT offer the feature, while Telekom supports it in Germany. In Thailand, AIS and True also provide support. This feature works only on devices that use C1 or C1X modems.
Apple has also introduced a new Weather wallpaper section within the Lock Screen customization menu. Weather and Astronomy, grouped in a single category, now have their own separate dedicated sections.
The new update also has Europe-specific features for third-party wearables like smartwatches and headphones.
Third-party smartwatches can now receive and interact with richer notifications on iPhone.
This update is applicable for iPhone 11 and later models, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (8th generation and later), and iPad mini (5th generation and later) devices.
iOS 26.3 can be downloaded by going to Settings > General > Software Update on your device.
Some users have pointed out that the updates are large, sometimes exceeding 10GB. There could be a variation in download size among users based on the model and software. These larger packages consist of a combination of patches or updates to the device firmware. Apple has not provided any clarification on package sizes for the update.
These updates are very important, especially for users on Safari, AirDrop, or accessing public Wi-Fi.
Also Read: iOS 26.3 Introduces Notification Forwarding: A Big Win for Wearables
The iOS 26.3 update includes frequent security patching, indicating that Apple is taking a proactive approach to address new potential threats. It also prepares the iPhone ecosystem for increasingly complex digital workloads. Apple is preparing a major iOS 26.4 update, which is rumored to have a super-powered Siri improved by Google's Gemini AI, new emojis, and more.
