Apple is gearing up to release its first iPhone update of 2026, iOS 26.3, and the tech world is already abuzz with speculation and anticipation. According to 9to5Mac, Apple’s software updates tend to follow a predictable rhythm, and the company’s track record with its x.3 releases suggests that iOS 26.3 will likely arrive on Monday, January 26, 2026. That date falls exactly one week after Martin Luther King Jr. Day, aligning with the pattern set by previous updates: iOS 18.3 on January 27, iOS 17.3 on January 22, and iOS 16.3 on January 23—all Mondays, and all following the same post-holiday cadence.
For iPhone enthusiasts and everyday users alike, these updates are more than just numbers—they’re the promise of new features, bug fixes, and, sometimes, the subtle tweaks that make life just a little bit easier. But what exactly is in store for iOS 26.3, and what hidden gems have users already discovered in iOS 26?
Let’s start with the facts. As of December 22, 2025, Apple has released only the first beta version of iOS 26.3. Historically, these x.3 updates have been lighter on headline-grabbing features, focusing instead on incremental improvements. This time, the first beta has introduced three primary changes, as reported by 9to5Mac: a revamp of the iPhone’s wallpaper options, a collaborative Android transfer tool, and a long-awaited notification forwarding feature for European Union users.
The wallpaper update might seem minor, but for those who love customizing their devices, it’s a welcome touch. Weather, previously lumped in with Astronomy in the wallpaper gallery, now enjoys its own dedicated section. There are also a couple of new Weather-themed options to freshen up your lock screen—perfect for anyone who enjoys seeing the forecast at a glance or simply wants something new to look at each morning.
Arguably more significant, though, is the new Android transfer option. This feature, the result of an Apple-Google collaboration, makes it easier than ever for users to switch from iPhone to Android—and vice versa. It’s a sign of the times: even tech giants are recognizing that users might not be as brand-loyal as they once were. Google, for its part, is rolling out a similar feature for those making the leap in the other direction. For anyone who’s ever dreaded the hassle of moving contacts, photos, and messages between platforms, this update could feel like a small miracle.
Then there’s the notification forwarding feature, which is set to debut for users in the EU. Until now, one of the Apple Watch’s standout perks was its seamless ability to mirror iPhone notifications. With iOS 26.3, that convenience will extend to third-party smartwatches and wearables—at least for those in Europe. It’s a move that could open the door for a broader ecosystem of devices, giving users more freedom to mix and match their tech without losing out on essential features.
But the story of iOS 26 doesn’t end with the upcoming 26.3 update. In fact, one of the most quietly celebrated features of iOS 26 itself is a tool that many users didn’t even know they needed—until now. According to reporting from The List, iOS 26 introduced a hidden feature called “Lens Cleaning Hints.” Anyone who’s ever snapped a once-in-a-lifetime photo, only to discover later that it was marred by a greasy fingerprint or a mysterious smudge, can appreciate the genius of this addition.
Here’s how it works: when you open the camera on your iPhone 15 or later (sorry, earlier models), the software keeps a digital eye out for anything that could be gumming up your lens. If it detects enough dirt or smudging to impact your photo quality, a pop-up appears on the screen with a simple message: “Clean Back Camera.” Presumably, the same warning will appear for the front camera when necessary. It’s a small thing, but for anyone who cares about their photos, it could be a lifesaver.
Setting up or tweaking this feature is straightforward. If you’re unsure whether Lens Cleaning Hints is enabled, just unlock your iPhone, head to the Settings app, select Camera, and scroll down to find the Lens Cleaning Hints toggle. If it’s green, you’re good to go; if not, a quick tap will activate it. And while you’re there, you might notice a few other camera settings worth exploring, such as Portraits in Photo Mode, Lens Correction, Macro Control, Prioritize Faster Shooting, and Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera. Each of these can be personalized to suit your photographic style, giving users even more control over their iPhone’s capabilities.
The Lens Cleaning Hints feature isn’t just about convenience; it’s about preserving memories. As The List put it, “If you’ve ever had a cherished pic ruined by a dirty lens, you can surely understand the appeal of this feature.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who’s lost a great shot to something as trivial as a fingerprint. And for those who keep their devices spotless? Well, consider it a little badge of honor that you haven’t seen the warning yet.
Of course, not every update is about bells and whistles. With each new iOS release, Apple also addresses bugs—sometimes the kind that leave users scratching their heads. Earlier this year, for example, a bug in iOS 26 caused some photos to turn out red, much to the confusion of users. But Apple has already pushed through fixes for these quirks, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to refining the user experience.
As the release date for iOS 26.3 draws near, users eager to get a jump on the new features can join Apple’s public beta program for early access. But for most, the wait won’t be long—just a few more weeks until the official rollout. Whether you’re excited about fresh wallpapers, easier device transfers, smarter notifications, or simply the peace of mind that comes with cleaner photos, there’s something in this update for everyone.
Apple’s steady cadence of updates might seem predictable, but it’s that very reliability that keeps users coming back. Each new version promises a little more polish, a little more convenience, and—every now and then—a feature that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it. As January 26 approaches, iPhone owners everywhere can look forward to another step forward in Apple’s ongoing quest to make technology just a bit more seamless, a bit more human, and a bit more fun.
