Apple released the iOS 26.3 Release Candidate to beta testers on Wednesday, which means anyone looking to get their hands on it should mark February 11 on their calendars.
The macOS Tahoe 26.3 Release Candidate has also just been released, which should make Mac users happy. It means that MacBook Pro with faster processors may be coming soon.
iOS 26.3: Mark your calendars and fluff your pillows
Fresh iOS updates can be a source of excitement: new features for your iPhone for free! Unfortunately, this does not happen with iOS 26.3. It turns out to be one of the most stunning updates for the iPhone.
Apple’s own description makes this clear: “This update provides important bug fixes and security updates.” Note the missing mention of new features.
iOS 26.3 has been in beta testing since December, and we’ve found a few improvements. However, it turns out that some of them comply with EU regulations and may not be available outside of Europe – sorry, Americans.
Still, bug fixes and security updates are important. And iPhone users should expect to get some of both when iOS 26.3 launches on Wednesday, February 11. If Apple sticks to its habit of releasing new iOS versions a week after release candidates reach beta testers.
That said, there are no hard and fast rules, so the launch day could be February 10th or February 12th.
macOS Tahoe 26.3: Good news for MacBook Pro fans
With macOS 26.3 Release Candidate also coming out on Wednesday, Mac users should also get a system software update in a week. Again, it is not expected to bring new features.
However, the new version is an important stepping stone to the release of the MacBook Pro with the M5 Pro or M5 Max chip. Leaks suggest that the laptop will start running macOS Tahoe 26.3, not the current version.
And the rest
Not to be missed, Release Candidates have also just been released
for iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3.
Again, don’t expect new features. These updates are for bug fixes.