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The iPhone Could Be Getting a Game-Changing New Feature

It’s coming with the next software update, which is expected to roll out later this month.

Copper-colored iPhone with a textured case lying on a wooden surface, partially surrounded by white Bose headphones.Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol
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By Tucker Bowe

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The next important software update coming to iPhone will be iOS 26.3 — it’s expected to be released by the end of January 2026, so sometime in the next few weeks.

For iPhone users in the US, iOS 26.3 promises a few bug fixes and minor improvements. Early betas suggest new ways to customize wallpapers, as well as an easier way to transfer data when switching from iPhone to Android.

However, it’s a different story for iPhone users in Europe. When the software update rolls out to them, it will deliver key features that could be game-changing.

Better third-party support

Hand holding a smartphone displaying AirPods Pro battery status with white AirPods case and beige headphones on a wooden table.
Proximity pairing promises to make it easier to connect third-party wireless headphones and earbuds with an iPhone. But only for European users.
Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol

As reported by MacRumors, iOS 26.3 will improve compatibility of iPhones in Europe with third-party headphones and smartwatches by adding features previously reserved for AirPods and Apple Watches.

For third-party headphones, the software update will introduce proximity pairing. So, similar to AirPods, your iPhone will detect nearby wireless headphones in pairing mode, and ask you if you want to pair them. No digging through the Settings app required.

For third-party smartwatches, iOS 26.3 will allow them to receive iPhone notifications and respond to them, which previously required an Apple Watch.

Smartwatch with a blue fabric band displaying notifications including a message from Melissa Reddy and a weekly summary.
Also, iOS 26.3 will give European iPhone users more reasons to use a third-party smartwatch with their iPhone.
Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol

These new abilities are to help Apple comply with the European Commission’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). A spokesperson for the EU told to The Wall Street Journal that it’s “another step towards a more interconnected digital ecosystem to the benefit of all EU citizens.”

It feels quite similar to the EU’s legislation that forced Apple to ditch Lighting in favor of a USB-C charging port for iPhones just a few years ago.

That said, if you’re crossing your fingers for Apple to bring similar features to iPhones in the US, it doesn’t appear to be the case. At least for the time being.

iOS 26.3 is expected to roll out later this month.

About the Author: Tucker Bowe has been on Gear Patrol’s editorial team since 2014. With a passion for consumer tech and hi-fi, he tracks everything from headphones and turntables to smartphones and wearables. If it lights up or makes noise, he probably covers it.

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