Apple Tests a Big Shift in iOS 26.2 Beta 3

Apple is preparing a major change for iPhone users in Japan with the latest iOS 26.2 beta 3 update. The new beta adds hidden code that hints at something many users have wanted for years. Apple is finally allowing the Side Button to trigger a third-party voice assistant instead of Siri.

Hidden Code Reveals New Side Button Controls

Developers spotted fresh references inside Apple’s private Siri frameworks. These strings directly mention selecting another default Side Button app. They also suggest that users can assign long-press actions to alternatives like Gemini or Alexa. This marks the first time Apple is opening this hardware gesture to other assistants.

The update includes messages such as “Select Another Default Side Button App” and “Press and Hold to Speak is not available while the Side Button is assigned to %@.” These lines clearly point to upcoming flexibility in how the Side Button works on the iPhone.

Japan Gets It First Because of New Regulations

The feature will remain exclusive to Japan at launch. This is because Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act becomes active in December 2025. The law requires companies like Apple to give third-party apps equal access to important system features. Voice assistants and hardware controls fall under this rule.

Therefore, iOS 26.2 beta 3 is Apple’s early move to comply with Japan's new competition guidelines. Apple confirms that only Japan-based Apple Accounts will get this option when the update rolls out.

The EU May Follow Later

There has been speculation about the feature coming to the European Union as well. The EU’s Digital Markets Act also aims to open hardware-level access for competing virtual assistants. However, Apple has not confirmed any timeline for the EU rollout. The current documentation focuses only on Japan for now.

A Major Step Toward Open Voice Assistant Choices

This update represents a rare shift in Apple’s approach to system-level control. The long-press Side Button gesture has always launched Siri. Now, Apple is preparing to let some users switch to another assistant without workarounds. Although the feature is limited for now, it signals Apple’s growing compliance with global competition laws.

iOS 26.2 beta 3 marks the beginning of that transition. Users in Japan will soon be able to press and hold their Side Button and launch something other than Siri for the first time in iPhone history.