iOS 26.3.1: expected release, bug fixes, and Apple events

Apple is expected to release iOS 26.3.1 in the near future. According to preliminary information, the update will arrive within the next two weeks and will be a technical release focused on bug fixes and potential security vulnerabilities.

The previous update, iOS 26.2.1, launched a month ago and brought stability improvements along with support for second-generation AirTags. iOS 26.3.1 is anticipated to follow a similar pattern without major new features, though some additional functionality can't be entirely ruled out at this stage.

The update's timing could align with a series of Apple Experience offline events scheduled for March 2–4. During these days, the company plans to unveil new products and provide journalists and bloggers with hands-on access. The events are set to take place in multiple cities, including New York, London, and Shanghai. Among the possible announcements is the iPhone 17e, and if that device is indeed presented, iOS 26.3.1 might include software support for it. However, this remains speculative for now.

iOS 26.3.1 will serve as an interim release between iOS 26.3 and the upcoming iOS 26.4, which is expected in late March or early April. The latter is rumored to be a much more substantial update, introducing new features for Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, CarPlay, and other ecosystem services. Notably, a personalized version of Siri, previously discussed in leaks, is not currently anticipated for iOS 26.4.