iOS 26.3.1 update in testing as new Apple releases loom

Apple released iOS 26.3 about two weeks ago, but the company is preparing another iOS update, this time without a beta cycle. MacRumors initially reported that Apple has an iOS 26.3.1 update in the works, and we here at Macworld also noticed that this website has been visited by devices running iOS 26.3.1.

Website logs are a fairly reliable indicator of upcoming updates. Apple’s visit to sites outside the company’s intranet indicates that the 26.3.1 update is imminent. Such point-release updates at Apple do not require developer and public beta testing, and they are completed much more quickly, probably within the next week or two.

The timing also fits perfectly with the announced Apple Experience on March 4, where Apple is expected to unveil several new products, including the iPhone 17e and a cheaper MacBook. Since Apple generally updates all of its devices at the same time, we expect macOS and iPadOS are in development as well. The new OS versions could be in preparation for the new devices.

With a point-release update such as iOS 26.3.1, Apple does not release any new features. Such updates are used to fix bugs, install security patches, and, in some instances, add support for newly released devices.