February isn't a month for major product launches for Apple, but rather one for important milestones. Following the new AirTag and the Creator Studio package in January, the focus now shifts to software, services, and organizational events. A particular highlight is the next iteration of Siri, which, after a considerable delay, is now taking shape.
Apple's plans for February are largely predictable. It's less about individual, spectacular innovations and more about the interplay of many smaller changes. New iOS versions will lay the technical groundwork, Siri is finally set to become more intelligent and personalized, and several events will affect developers, students, shareholders, and users of Apple services. Taken together, this makes for a month that may seem quiet, but is strategically important.
iOS 26.3: A subtle update with long-term effects
iOS 26.3 is currently in beta. The release candidate is expected soon, and the final version should be released to all users in the first half of February.
At first glance, the update seems small, but it contains several important features. These include a new tool for switching from iOS to Android, designed to simplify data transfer. Additionally, there's the ability to forward notifications, which is particularly useful when using multiple devices.
Also new is a near-field pairing feature similar to AirPods for third-party accessories. This function is aimed at smartwatches and other accessories, which can now be set up more quickly and easily. This is complemented by more precise location settings for mobile network operators.
In the background, Apple is also preparing support for end-to-end encryption in RCS messages. This creates the technical prerequisites for mobile network operators to actually implement the encryption Apple has announced. Even if little of this is visible at first, it is an important step towards more modern messaging standards.
Personalized Siri: Restart with external support
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple plans to announce a significantly revamped version of Siri in the second half of February. This will be a personalized version of Siri based on Google Gemini technology, but still part of a new Apple intelligence model.
This new Siri will be part of iOS 26.4. The beta version is expected to launch in February, while the release for all users is anticipated in late March or early April. An iPhone 15 Pro or newer is required.
Apple had already unveiled this personalized Siri at WWDC 2024. At the time, they showcased an assistant capable of understanding and combining personal information. As an example, they demonstrated a query regarding flight and reservation details, which Siri was able to answer using information from the Mail and Messages apps.
The launch was later postponed due to internal technical issues. Reports indicated that Siri wasn't stable enough to reliably deliver the promised features. These difficulties ultimately led to the collaboration with Google. Despite the integration of Gemini, Siri remains an Apple product, but is expected to improve significantly in recognizing context, understanding on-screen content, and performing tasks based on personal data.
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Fixed Apple events in February
New content for Apple Arcade
On Thursday, February 5th, Apple Arcade will expand its offerings with four new games. Of particular note is Retrocade, an app featuring classic arcade titles such as Asteroids, PAC-MAN, Breakout, Galaga, and Space Invaders. Additionally, an arcade version of the popular PC game Sid Meier's Civilization VII will be released.
Swift Student Challenge 2026
From Friday, February 6, through February 28, Apple will accept submissions for the Swift Student Challenge 2026. Some of the winners will have the opportunity to spend three days at Apple Park during WWDC in June 2026. The competition remains a key component of Apple's efforts to nurture young talent and develop developers.
Apple Music and the Super Bowl
On Sunday, February 8th, Apple Music is the official sponsor of the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show. This year's performer is Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny.
Farewell to the old Home app architecture
On Tuesday, February 10th, Apple will permanently discontinue support for the original architecture of the Home app. According to Apple, without a corresponding update, problems may occur when using smart home devices.
Virtual Annual General Meeting
Apple's annual shareholders meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 24, at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time. As in previous years, it will be held virtually. Shareholders who were registered on January 2, 2026, are eligible to vote. Items on the agenda include the re-election of the board of directors and procedural matters. Statements regarding future products or strategies are not typically expected.
Apple is focusing on continuity rather than showmanship in February
February showcases Apple's quiet but consistent side. iOS 26.3 lays the technical groundwork, iOS 26.4 paves the way for a significantly more powerful Siri, and several releases address key areas such as gaming, music, smart home technology, and developer support. There are no major announcements, but the direction is clear: Apple continues to work on tightly integrating its platforms and making them more powerful in the long run. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / lasido)
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