iOS 26.3 Beta Arrives as Launch of New Siri Nears

Join our Social Channels

Just a few days after the public release of iOS 16.2 on December 12th, Apple has rolled out the first beta of iOS 26.3 to developers. This comes as anticipation builds for a significant update, potentially including a revamped Siri, in the subsequent iOS 26.4 release. While this current beta focuses on refinement, it lays the groundwork for what’s expected to be a substantial upgrade.

iOS 26.3 Beta: What’s New

While the full scope of changes in iOS 26.3 is still unfolding, two key features mandated by the European Union are already evident. Firstly, iOS 26.3 introduces enhanced support for switching between Android and iPhone devices, a collaboration with Google. This initiative aims to simplify the transition process for users moving between the two mobile operating systems.

iOS 26.3 beta arrives as launch of new Siri
iOS 26.3 beta arrives as launch of new Siri (Macworld)

Secondly, and another EU-driven change, is the introduction of notification forwarding capabilities. This means users will be able to send notifications to third-party devices, expanding beyond the Apple Watch ecosystem. For those interested in configuring this feature, a new ‘Notification Forwarding’ section can be found within Settings > Notifications.

This particular beta release, iOS 26.3, is reportedly the final minor update before iOS 26.4, which is slated to bring the long-awaited revamped Siri functionality. Many have been anticipating this significant Siri upgrade for over a year, and it seems iOS 26.4 will be the version to deliver it.

Also Read  What Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Leaked CAD Render Details Reveal About 2025 Flagship

iOS 26.3 Beta: How to Install

For those eager to test the latest beta before its public release, installation is straightforward.

Installing the Public Beta:

If you’re not a registered developer, you can join the Apple Beta Software Program:

  • Visit the Apple Beta page and sign up using your Apple ID.
  • Log in to your Beta Software Program account.
  • Select ‘Enroll your iOS device’.
  • On your iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Under the ‘Beta Updates’ section, choose ‘iOS Public Beta’.

Please note that it might take a few moments for the beta option to appear after registration.

Installing the Developer Beta:

Registered developers can access the beta through the Apple Developer app:

  • Download the Apple Developer app from the App Store.
  • Open the app and tap on ‘Account’.
  • Sign in with your Apple ID.

This latest beta of iOS 26.3 is designed to bring further polish to the existing iOS 26 experience, paving the way for more significant announcements, especially concerning the future of Siri, in upcoming releases.

For more in-depth information on iOS 26, be sure to check out the comprehensive iOS 26 superguide.

About the Author: Jason Cross, Senior Editor at Macworld, has over 25 years of experience covering technology. He excels at demystifying complex tech for a general audience.

Image Credit: Macworld

Author's Bio

Photo of author
I’m Puja a passionate tech content writer who specializes in delivering clear, engaging, and up-to-date articles on the latest innovations in the tech world. From AI breakthroughs to the newest smartphones, laptops, tablets, iPads, and smartwatches, I cover it all with accuracy and simplicity to keep readers informed and ahead of the curve.

Leave a Comment