Apple could soon improve interoperability between iPhones and third-party smartwatches with a new “notification forwarding” feature in iOS 26.1 beta, allowing iPhone notifications on non-Apple devices.
Code suggests users would only be able to forward notifications to one device at a time. A new “AccessoryExtension” framework could enhance the pairing process with third-party accessories.
These features appear related to a European Commission order requiring Apple to improve compatibility with non-Apple accessories. Apple must comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by the end of this year.
Originally reported by www.theverge.com as “Latest iOS beta hints at notifications on non-Apple watches” on 2025-09-24 18:09:00.
