Apple just made switching to Android easier with iOS 26.3

• Posted on February 17, 2026February 17, 2026
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

Apple’s iOS 26.3 update makes it easier to switch from iPhone to Android. Here’s how the new transfer feature works and which devices support it.

Apple has released iOS 26.3, and while it may not look like a flashy update at first glance, it introduces one surprising feature that is already getting attention; a simpler way for iPhone users to switch to Android devices.

The update focuses heavily on improving device migration, strengthening security, and introducing new usability improvements that affect how people move data, use wearables, and manage notifications. If you’re thinking about changing ecosystems, this update removes some of the biggest frustrations that previously came with switching phones.

When Was iOS 26.3 Released?

Apple officially released iOS 26.3 on February 11, 2026, as part of its regular software improvement cycle. The update arrived roughly two months after the release of iOS 26.2 and is available as a free download for eligible iPhones. 

Like most Apple software updates, users can install it by going to Settings ? General ? Software Update, as long as their device supports iOS 26.

The Biggest Upgrade: Switching From iPhone to Android Just Got Easier

The standout feature in iOS 26.3 is a new built-in tool that simplifies transferring data from an iPhone to an Android device.

Apple has been restrictive since its existence, which made switching require downloading multiple apps or manually moving files between devices. Now, Apple has integrated a migration feature directly into the phone setup process.

How the New Transfer Tool Works

With iOS 26.3:

• Users can place their iPhone next to an Android device to start the transfer
• Data migration can happen wirelessly
• The process starts during device setup
• No third-party apps are required

The tool supports transferring:

• Photos and videos
• Messages
• Notes
• Contacts and phone numbers
• Passwords
• Installed apps and settings

This dramatically reduces the stress that usually comes with switching between operating systems and removes one of the biggest barriers that kept users locked into one ecosystem. 

Interestingly, Google already offers a similar transfer option called ‘Quick Share’, for moving from Android with its pixel series, Pixel 10 to iPhone, meaning switching between both platforms is gradually becoming smoother and more balanced.

Notification Forwarding Is Expanding Beyond Apple Watch

Another notable addition in iOS 26.3 is improved support for third-party wearable devices.

The update introduces a notification forwarding feature, which allows iPhone notifications to appear on smartwatches that are not made by Apple.

What This Means for Users

• You can read full notification content on compatible third-party wearables
• You can control notification settings directly from your iPhone
• It helps create a more flexible ecosystem beyond Apple Watch

However, there is one limitation. Notifications can only be forwarded to one wearable device at a time. If enabled for a third-party smartwatch, Apple Watch notifications may be disabled. 

This feature is currently focused on helping Apple meet regulatory requirements in Europe, but it signals Apple’s gradual shift toward allowing better compatibility with non-Apple accessories. 

Security and Performance Improvements

Although Apple did not heavily advertise them, iOS 26.3 also includes several background upgrades that improve device stability and privacy.

These include:

• Bug fixes and performance improvements
• Security updates to protect user data
• Better system optimisation for smoother operation

Apple regularly uses minor updates like this to quietly patch vulnerabilities and improve device reliability, which is one reason the company strongly encourages users to stay updated. 

Which iPhones Support iOS 26.3?

iOS 26.3 is available on all devices that already support iOS 26. This includes most iPhones released from 2019 onwards.

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Supported Devices

• iPhone 17 Series
• iPhone 16 Series
• iPhone 15 Series
• iPhone 14 Series
• iPhone 13 Series
• iPhone 12 Series
• iPhone 11 Series

Apple dropped support for older devices like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, meaning they cannot run iOS 26 or later updates. 

Why This Update Matters

The new Android transfer feature may look small, but it represents a shift in how Apple approaches device ecosystems.

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For years, switching away from iPhones was known to be complicated and time-consuming. By simplifying migration, Apple is showing more openness to user choice, even if it means helping users move to a competitor’s platform.

At the same time, improvements to wearable compatibility suggest Apple is responding to increasing regulatory and consumer pressure to make its devices work better with third-party hardware.

Should You Install iOS 26.3?

If your device supports it, installing iOS 26.3 is recommended because it includes important security fixes and performance improvements.

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The update may be especially useful if:

• You are planning to switch to Android
• You use third-party wearable devices
• You want better system stability and privacy protection

Even if you are not switching devices anytime soon, staying up to date helps keep your phone secure and running smoothly.