Apple’s walled garden might finally be opening up. The latest iOS beta hints at notifications on non-Apple watches, a move that could reshape how iPhones interact with third-party devices. This discovery comes as Apple faces new European Union rules requiring better interoperability across accessories.
What The iOS Beta Reveals
The iOS 26.1 beta reportedly includes a new “notification forwarding” feature. This would allow iPhone alerts to show up on non-Apple smartwatches and other accessories. According to Macworld, users may only be able to forward notifications to one device at a time, but this is still a big shift for iPhone owners who don’t want to be locked into the Apple Watch.
In addition, a new “AccessoryExtension” framework was spotted in the code. This could streamline the pairing process with third-party accessories, making connections smoother and more reliable. While the feature is still in testing, it signals a new chapter in how Apple devices will work with outside hardware.
Why Apple Is Opening Up
This change isn’t happening by chance. The European Commission, through the Digital Markets Act (DMA), is forcing Apple to open certain iOS features to competitors. That means iPhones must work better with third-party devices such as watches, headphones, and speakers.
Apple has until the end of the year to comply, and while it’s unclear if the feature will be ready at the official iOS 26 launch, the timing strongly suggests that EU pressure is driving these updates.
What It Means For Users
For consumers, the latest iOS beta hints at notifications on non-Apple watches means more choice. If you already own a smartwatch from Samsung, Garmin, or Fitbit, you may soon be able to enjoy seamless iPhone notifications without switching to an Apple Watch.
This could also mean smoother data transfers and pairing between iPhones and other accessories, reducing the frustration of being locked into Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple loosening its grip could reshape the wearables market. By making iPhones friendlier to third-party devices, Apple might actually boost overall user satisfaction and reduce regulatory scrutiny. At the same time, competitors in the smartwatch space gain a better chance to win over iPhone owners who want flexibility.
Comment