Apple has started rolling out a test security improvement update to users running Developer Beta versions of iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3. This update comes three weeks after the release of the first betas of these versions, which introduced features like ‘Transfer to Android’ and ‘Notification Forwarding’ for third-party accessories.
Background Security Improvements is a feature that has been present on devices since the release of version 26.1, and it seems like it is finally being utilized.
To receive this update, you can go into Settings>Privacy and Security>Background Security Improvements and see iOS 26.3 (a) on the screen. According to Apple, “This Background Security Improvement is for testing purposes only and does not contain any security fixes.”
However, this feature aims to bring regular security improvements, similar to the ones in full software updates (26.x.x), resulting in quicker updates, since it only requires a restart after downloading.
There is a new Background security update iOS 26.3 (a) under privacy and security and background security improvements. pic.twitter.com/8PLSCiAFDn
— Aaron Zollo (@zollotech) January 6, 2026
We can still expect the second betas to be released this week, if we follow last year’s pattern, where iOS 18.3 Beta 2 was released on January 7, 2025. Users who are registered as a developer on www.developer.apple.com can opt in to receive beta updates by going into Settings>General>Software Update>Beta Updates and selecting Developer Beta. Do note that these versions are not stable and are meant for testing purposes.
How excited are you about these upcoming software updates with useful new features? Let us know down in the comments or write to us on @appleosophy! Be sure to download the Appleosophy App from the App Store or visit our website to stay updated with the latest Apple news!
