Apple has now seeded the release candidate (RC) versions of iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 to developers, marking the final stage of testing before the updates are released publicly.
The RC builds arrive one week after beta 3, and they typically represent the exact versions that will ship to everyone, assuming no major bugs are discovered.
If everything stays on track, iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 should roll out widely sometime next week.
What is a release candidate?
A release candidate is essentially Apple’s final pre-release build. Once an update reaches this stage, it usually means:
- Feature development is complete
- Only stability checks remain
- The public release is very close
For most users, RC availability is a strong sign that the update is nearly ready.
How to install iOS 26.3 RC
Developers enrolled in Apple’s testing program can download the update now by going to: Settings > General > Software Update. The same process applies on both iPhone and iPad.
What’s new in iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3?
While iOS 26.3 is not a major feature overhaul, it introduces a few notable improvements, including a new transfer tool and region-specific changes.
A new way to transition from iPhone to Android
One of the more interesting additions in iOS 26.3 is a built-in tool designed to make switching from an iPhone to an Android device easier.
Transfers can now be initiated during the setup process, and Apple says users will no longer need to download a separate app to move data between devices.
The transfer process supports moving:
- Photos
- Messages
- Notes
- Passwords
- Apps
- Phone number information
- Other key data
It’s a practical update for anyone changing platforms, and a rare example of Apple improving the experience of leaving the iPhone ecosystem.
Notification Forwarding for third-party wearables in the EU
Another important change arrives specifically for users in the European Union.
iOS 26.3 adds a new Notification Forwarding setting that enables support for third-party wearable devices, expanding notification compatibility beyond Apple Watch.
This update is likely part of Apple’s broader response to EU interoperability requirements.
Small refinements to Weather wallpaper
Apple is also making minor adjustments to the Weather wallpaper gallery, continuing the subtle visual changes introduced earlier in the iOS 26 cycle.
A new feature to limit location data shared with your carrier
Apple’s added a new Limit Precise Loation feature to iOS 26.3 which limits how much location data your cellular carrier can infer about you. The feature works with Apple’s own modem like the C1 on the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and the M5 iPad Pro.
Public release expected soon
With the release candidates now available, Apple will likely release iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 to the public next week, assuming no last-minute issues appear.
For most users, it’s a good idea to wait for the final release rather than installing developer builds, but the update itself looks to be a relatively stable and focused one.
