With iOS 26.3, Apple has released a striking update, and this time in a surprising way. The new version makes it easy to switch from an iPhone to an Android phone. Users can simply hold their iPhone next to an Android device and both phones will automatically connect to securely transfer data such as contacts, photos, messages and settings.
This change shows that Apple is now paying more attention to transferring data between different platforms. Switching from Android to iPhone has been easy for years with the Switch to iOS app, but now it is also easy in the other direction.
iOS 26.3 in beta
At the time of writing, version 26.3 of the software is in beta and the update is still being extensively tested. The update is expected to be available to all users in February.
Easier transfer to Android devices
The biggest change in iOS 26.3 is the introduction of streamlined migration to Android phones. For the first time, Apple makes it very easy to switch from iPhone to Android. Users can simply hold their iPhone and Android device next to each other and the devices will automatically connect and transfer data.
- Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad
- Go to ‘General’
- Tap ‘Transfer or set [apparaat] back in’
- Choose ‘Transfer to Android’
This transfer involves transferring the following items: photos, messages, notes, applications, passwords, contact information, and phone numbers. This wireless transfer happens without having to download separate apps. Google has simultaneously implemented a reverse feature, allowing Android users to easily switch to iPhone as well.
However, it’s important to know that some sensitive data isn’t transferred: health data, paired Bluetooth devices, and secure items like locked notes remain on your iPhone.
Why Apple is doing this now
The fact that Apple is adding this feature seems to be part of a broader trend towards open interoperability. In the European Union there is increasing emphasis on consumer friendliness and freedom of choice, partly due to recent regulations regarding data transfer between platforms. With iOS 26.3, Apple is responding intelligently to this by showing that the company wants to be transparent and cooperative, without sacrificing privacy or user-friendliness.