Apple’s new iOS 26.3 beta introduces a built-in “Transfer to Android” tool, making it easier for users to move photos, messages, passwords, and more directly from iPhone to Android.
Published: December 16, 2025 7:13 PM IST
Apple is removing some friction points for those looking to switch to an Android phone from an iPhone. The first iOS 26.3 beta contains a “Transfer to Android” tool to help with the move and will be built into the OS.
Move to Android vs Move to iOS
Moving data to a new iPhone has always been easy. Switching from Android is more of a challenge, though Google’s “Switch to Android” app provides some similar support. Until now, Apple has not included a native iPhone-to-Android data migration tool, and instead it’s relied on cloud services, downloads, and third-party apps to make the jump.
Apple’s first steps towards removing barriers have been relatively minor, but the upcoming iOS 26.3 beta takes that to the next level by adding native support to move data to an Android device during set-up or from within the settings menu.
Transfer to Android From iPhone in iOS 26.3 Beta
To use the feature, first update the old iPhone to iOS 26.3 beta and then go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone. A prompt will then guide users to place their Android device near the iPhone to initiate the connection. After pairing via a wireless connection that uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, users are then guided through the types of data to move.
Items that are supported include:
- Photos and videos
- Messages and message attachments
- Notes
- Apps and associated app data
- Passwords
- Phone number
Things that won’t be transferred include any health data, Bluetooth-paired accessories, or protected data such as locked notes.
This transfer process removes the need for Google’s “Switch to Android” app and removes another barrier for iPhone users who may be in the market for a switch.
Apple and Ecosystem Lock-In
The switch is welcome news for Android users, as it has been the reverse process of moving from Android to iPhone that has been simpler. Data transfer and app compatibility are key points of friction for mobile users that Apple has historically protected as ways to keep people in its ecosystem.
The native Transfer to Android tool in iOS 26.3 is still in beta, but it will arrive on more public versions of the software as the final version of iOS 26.3 becomes available (likely early in 2026) and could see some changes before then.
iOS 26.3 Beta Is Revealing the Future of Apple
Industry analysts view the moves by Apple and Google as the two major phone companies continuing to make it easier for users to switch between ecosystems. Apple is under regulatory pressure in the European Union and other regions to open up more of its software and this data migration tool appears to be one of those changes.
Other details that have been spotted in iOS 26.3 beta include a new way to forward notifications to third-party wearables like the Meta Quest or Google Pixel Watch and beyond iPhone users, this could signal a more open future for iOS as well.
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