iOS 26.3 beta gets new background security update test

Following the release of iOS 16.2 on Friday, December 12, the first beta release of iOS 26.3 was made available to developers a few days later, on December 15. We expect a final release to the public sometime in late January or early February. This is reportedly the last minor refresh before iOS 26.4 brings the revamped Siri upgrade we’ve waited over a year to get.

Update January 6: Apple has issued a test of the Background Security Update feature. Head to Settings > Privacy & Security > Background Security Improvements to install it when running the iOS 26.3 beta. This update does not actually make any changes, it is just a test of the security update system.

iOS 26.3 beta: What’s new

We don’t yet know all of the new features and changes to expect in iOS 26.3. We’ll update this section as we learn more.

Easier switching between Android and iPhone: iOS 26.3 brings support for easier iOS/Android switching made in collaboration with Google at the behest of the European Union. You can read more about that here.

Notification forwarding for third-party devices: Another EU-mandated change, Apple will allow for notifications to be forwarded to third-party devices, like smartwatches other than Apple Watch. There is a new Notification Forwarding section in Settings > Notifications

iOS 26.3 beta: How to install the public beta

If you want to test the iOS 26 beta releases but are not a registered developer, follow these steps:

1. Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
2. Log in to the Beta Software Program.
3. Click Enroll your iOS device.
4. Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update.
5. In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta.

It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update.

iOS 26.3 beta: How to install the developer beta

You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:

1. Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.
2. Open the app.
3. Tap on Account.
4. Sign in using your usual Apple ID.

Find out everything you need to know about iOS 26 in our iOS 26 superguide.