With iOS 26.3, Apple is opening up its mobile operating system more than it has in years. The new beta version brings concrete features that facilitate switching between platforms and better integrate third-party hardware. For precisely this, Apple is now receiving recognition from Brussels. The European Union sees iOS 26.3 as an important step towards greater competition and new opportunities for innovation in the digital market.
The relationship between Apple and the EU has long been characterized by criticism of closed systems. With iOS 26.3, it becomes clear for the first time how regulatory pressure is being translated into functional changes. The new interoperability features are not cosmetic adjustments, but rather deeply affect the system logic of iOS. The EU interprets this move as a signal that Apple's platform could become more open in the long term.
iOS 26.3 with a focus on interoperability
The current developer beta of iOS 26.3 brings a total of three new features. Two of them are explicitly aimed at making iOS more user-friendly for third-party hardware. With this, Apple is departing from its previous strategy of offering core functions almost exclusively within its own ecosystem.
The focus is clearly on interoperability. Users should be able to switch or add devices without having to accept significant limitations. These points were precisely the focus of the European Union's investigations.
Transfer to Android as the biggest innovation
The most important change in iOS 26.3 is the new "Transfer to Android" system. This allows data to be transferred directly from an iPhone to a new Android device. The process is very similar to setting up a new iPhone.
Apple clearly explains the process in the settings. The Android device is placed next to the iPhone to establish a connection and start the transfer process. Once both devices are paired, photos, messages, notes, apps, and other content can be transferred wirelessly. The phone number is also automatically transferred to the new Android device.
In parallel, the latest Android beta reflects this approach with a feature for switching from Android to iPhone. Platform switching thus works in both directions according to a comparable principle.
Notification forwarding for third-party smartwatches
The second key new feature in iOS 26.3 concerns smartwatches outside the Apple ecosystem. With the new notification forwarding, iPhone notifications can be displayed on a third-party smartwatch just like on the Apple Watch.
This feature is exclusively available to users in EU countries. Apple is thus specifically complying with European antitrust regulations. For third-party smartwatch manufacturers, this means significantly deeper integration into iOS without having to rely on unofficial workarounds.
EU accepts praise for iOS 26.3
As reported by the Wall Street Journal, the European Commission emphasizes that both functions were necessary to comply with the requirements of the Digital Markets Act.
The Commission expressly welcomes the release of the beta version of iOS 26.3 by Apple. Developers can now test interoperability with two new features that emerged from an EU investigation into connected devices such as smartwatches. This investigation was launched in March under the Digital Markets Act.
A Commission spokesperson explained that the DMA creates new opportunities for developers to offer innovative products and services in Europe. iOS 26.3 is a further step towards a more interconnected digital ecosystem that benefits all EU citizens.
iOS 26.3 marks a strategic shift in direction for Apple
iOS 26.3 exemplifies a shift in direction for Apple. With features like "Transfer to Android" and system-wide support for third-party smartwatches, the company is not only responding to legal requirements but also fundamentally changing how iOS is used. The positive reaction from the EU shows that these measures are seen as a serious contribution to greater competition and innovation. For the European market, iOS 26.3 thus marks an important step towards a more open digital environment. (Image: Shutterstock / kovop)
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