Get ready for a wave of Apple updates! But here's the catch: we don't know what's in them yet. Apple has just released the release candidate versions of watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3 to developers, marking the final testing phase before public release. This comes hot on the heels of the third beta versions released just last week. Think of release candidates as the 'almost-final' versions – they're what the public will get unless any last-minute bugs are found.
These updates are accessible through the Settings app on each device, but remember, you'll need a developer account to access them.
And this is the part most people miss: Apple is notoriously tight-lipped about beta features. We haven't uncovered any new features in these updates so far, and Apple typically doesn't provide release notes for betas. So, unless there are obvious changes, we might have to wait until the public launch to see what's new.
Expect these updates to roll out to everyone next week now that the release candidates are out.
Controversy Alert: While we're excited about these updates, the lack of transparency around beta features can be frustrating for users eager to know what's coming. Should Apple be more open about upcoming changes, or does the element of surprise add to the excitement? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
In other Apple news, the iOS 26.3 release candidate is still pending, pushing the first iOS 26.4 beta back by at least a week or two. This means iOS 26.4 likely won't reach the public until March or April. Rumors suggest iOS 26.3 will include an iPhone-to-Android transfer tool, making switching between ecosystems easier.
Food for thought: Is Apple finally acknowledging the need for better interoperability, or is this just a strategic move to attract Android users?
CarPlay Ultra, Apple's next-gen in-car system, is finally expanding beyond Aston Martin. Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are among the brands expected to offer it later this year. This is a significant step towards wider adoption, but will it be enough to challenge established in-car systems?
The tech world is abuzz with rumors of an 'imminent' MacBook Pro launch. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that new models, code-named J714 and J716, will feature faster chips while retaining the current design. These are expected to launch alongside macOS 26.3.
Speaking of macOS 26.3, it's rumored to accompany the new MacBook Pros, which will reportedly boast M5 Pro and M5 Max chips.
Lastly, a final reminder for Home app users: Apple's new Home architecture requires an upgrade by February 10th. Failure to do so could result in issues with accessories and automations, or even loss of access to your smart home devices. Don't get left in the dark – update now!
