The latest update, iOS 26.3, introduces some intriguing features, particularly around interoperability. One highlight is “notification forwarding.” This allows iPhone users in the European Union to send notifications to third-party accessories, including Wear OS smartwatches from Google. Users can choose which apps send notifications to these connected devices, somewhat mimicking the Apple Watch’s setup.
Currently, in the beta tests, iPhones can only forward notifications to one device at a time. So if you connect your smartwatch, you won’t receive notifications on an Apple Watch simultaneously.
Another interesting addition is the “limit precise location” feature for select models equipped with Apple’s C1 and C1X modems. This setting aims to enhance location privacy by reducing the accuracy of location data available to cellular networks. Right now, it’s available on only a few devices, such as the iPhone Air and some versions of the iPad Pro, with Boost Mobile being the only U.S. carrier supporting it. Older devices and those with different modems won’t have access to this feature.
In addition to iOS, Apple also updated its other operating systems, including macOS and watchOS. However, these updates mainly consist of bug fixes and performance tweaks. Beta testers have spotted hints of support for the new M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips, signaling upcoming refreshes for certain Mac models, but details remain light.
Looking ahead to iOS 26.4, expectations are growing. This version is rumored to include a more advanced Siri, utilizing Google’s Gemini language models—a shift from the previously planned OpenAI integration. This new Siri was initially slated for release alongside iOS 18 but hit delays due to quality concerns.
As we wait for the next batch of updates, it’s worth noting that user reactions have been mixed. Some are excited about the interoperability with third-party devices and the privacy features, while others feel the updates are minor compared to expectations from Apple. Social media discussions reflect this divide, with users sharing both praise and skepticism.
For more information on Apple’s privacy measures, you can visit this official page. These advancements mark a notable shift in how Apple is integrating its ecosystem with third-party devices, hinting at a larger trend of collaboration in tech.
