Apple iPhone Set to Support Third-Party Smartwatches with iOS 26.1

Apple is reportedly preparing to enhance the interoperability between iPhones and third-party smartwatches with the upcoming iOS 26.1 update. This marks a significant shift in Apple's ecosystem strategy, traditionally favoring its own Apple Watch. The beta version of iOS 26.1 reveals a feature called "Notification Forwarding," which allows users to display iPhone notifications on non-Apple devices. This change is largely influenced by regulatory pressures from the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates greater compatibility between devices.

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The Notification Forwarding feature will enable users to select which apps can send notifications to a connected accessory, such as a Garmin or Fitbit smartwatch. However, only one accessory can receive notifications at a time, and enabling this feature will disable notifications on the Apple Watch. Additionally, the beta code includes references to a new framework called "AccessoryExtension," which may streamline the pairing process for third-party devices.

iPhones likely to soon be more open to smartwatches from other brandsGarmin could soon get richer notification support on iPhonesApple’s smartwatch restrictions could ease with new notification featureiOS 26.1 beta suggests iPhones will soon support third-party smartwatchesMacRumorsThe VergeiOS 26.1 beta hints at iPhone support for third-party smartwatches

The push for improved compatibility is largely driven by the European Commission's recent decisions under the DMA, which require Apple to allow third-party devices broader access to notifications and system-level features. This regulatory environment has prompted Apple to reconsider its restrictive practices regarding non-Apple accessories. The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) has also raised concerns about Apple's practices in its ongoing antitrust case, arguing that the company limits third-party smartwatches from achieving functionality comparable to the Apple Watch.

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Critics argue that Apple's historical limitations on third-party smartwatch functionality have stifled competition and innovation. The DoJ's case highlights how Apple has used its market power to exclude competing devices from accessing essential features, such as cellular connectivity and notification responses. While Apple has made concessions in other areas, such as cloud gaming and RCS messaging, the extent of changes for third-party smartwatch integration remains to be seen.

MacRumorsApple’s smartwatch restrictions could ease with new notification featureiPhones likely to soon be more open to smartwatches from other brandsiOS 26.1 beta suggests iPhones will soon support third-party smartwatchesiOS 26.1 beta hints at iPhone support for third-party smartwatchesThe VergeGarmin could soon get richer notification support on iPhones

While the iOS 26.1 update is expected to roll out in October, it is unclear whether the Notification Forwarding feature will be available globally or limited to the EU. If implemented successfully, this functionality could significantly enhance the user experience for iPhone owners who prefer third-party smartwatches, allowing for richer notification management and potentially broader access to health tracking features.

iOS 26.1 beta suggests iPhones will soon support third-party smartwatches

• “ One line of text states: Choose which apps can send notifications to your accessory.” — iOS 26.1 Code

iPhones likely to soon be more open to smartwatches from other brands

• “Notifications can be forwarded to one accessory at a time.” — iOS 26.1 Code

MacRumors

• “But the Digital Markets Act in Europe is clearly pushing Apple toward more openness.” — Gadgets & Wearables

Garmin could soon get richer notification support on iPhones

In summary, the anticipated changes in iOS 26.1 represent a pivotal moment for Apple's approach to third-party device integration, driven by regulatory demands and user expectations for greater compatibility.

iOS 26.1 beta suggests iPhones will soon support third-party smartwatches