Apple has released the Release Candidate (RC) builds of watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3 for developers, just one week after the third beta versions rolled out.
Release Candidates are usually the final step before a public launch, meaning these updates are likely what everyone will get next week, as long as no major bugs show up during last-minute testing.
What’s new in watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3?
So far, Apple hasn’t highlighted any big new features in these updates. Unlike iOS releases, where changes are often more noticeable, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS updates can sometimes be quieter, focusing mostly on:
- Bug fixes
- Stability improvements
- Performance tweaks
- Under-the-hood refinements
Apple also hasn’t shared detailed release notes for these RC builds yet, which is pretty typical during the beta cycle.
That means we may not know what’s changed until the updates officially arrive for everyone.
Who can install the Release Candidate right now?
At the moment, these RC versions are available only for developers. You can download them through the Settings app on each device, but you’ll need a (free) developer account connected to your Apple ID to access the update.
Public beta testers may also start seeing these builds soon, depending on Apple’s rollout schedule.
When will the public release happen?
With Release Candidates now out, the public versions of watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3 are expected to launch sometime next week, assuming everything stays stable.
If Apple does uncover something major, it could always push one more RC, but most of the time this is the final stop before release day.
Apple’s update train keeps moving, and even if this one seems small, these mid-cycle releases usually help keep devices running smoothly.
We’ll keep an eye out for any hidden changes or surprises as more details emerge.
