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Apple Explores New Notification Features for Third-Party Smartwatches

Apple Explores New Notification Features for Third-Party Smartwatches
source: gettyimages
September 23, 2025

Apple may be developing new functionalities that enhance the capabilities of third-party smartwatches when connected to an iPhone. According to iOS 26.1 code uncovered by Macworld, a feature called Notification Forwarding could allow third-party devices to receive notifications from the iPhone.

> "Choose Which apps can send notifications to your accessory," states one line of code. Another notes that "Notifications can be forwarded to one accessory at a time," and that notifications will not display on the Apple Watch when Notification Forwarding is activated.

Additionally, references to accessory pairing enhancements, such as an AccessoryExtension framework, suggest future possibilities for pairing third-party devices with the iPhone. However, the language remains ambiguous, and it is uncertain whether these features are intended solely for third-party smartwatches or are part of a broader update.

Regulatory and Legal Context

The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) may influence these developments, as it mandates that Apple provide third-party smartwatches and other devices with access to notifications and similar features typically exclusive to the Apple Watch.

In the United States, the Department of Justice has raised similar concerns in the ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Apple. The DOJ alleges that Apple restricts third-party smartwatches by limiting cellular connectivity and restricting notification functionalities, thereby maintaining a competitive edge for its own devices.

Apple's Response to Regulatory and Legal Challenges

Since the lawsuit was filed, Apple has been steadily addressing some of the DOJ's claims. Notably:

If Notification Forwarding is linked solely to EU regulations, it might be an EU-specific feature, possibly extending globally. Whether this feature will be a widespread update remains to be seen.

Latest iOS 26.1 Beta and Other Updates

Apple released the first beta of iOS 26.1, which primarily introduces support for additional languages in Apple Intelligence, including Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (Traditional), and Vietnamese.

Other recent highlights:

Looking Ahead

With ongoing regulatory pressures and internal development, Apple continues to evolve its device ecosystem, potentially opening avenues for greater third-party integration and enhanced user experiences across its product lineup.

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