Latest iOS 26.1 beta brings good news for iPhone users with third-party smartwatches

Apple’s closed ecosystem does allow for seamless communication and pairing between first party devices, such as iPhones and Apple Watch. However, those who own third party smartwatches only enjoy limited functionality with their iPhone. That could change soon as evidence of a more inclusive pairing and communication update has been spotted in the iOS 26.1 beta source code. This could be a response to the European Union’s instructions to Apple.

According to a report by Macworld, the iOS 26.1 beta 1 code has some notable changes, particularly with third-party smartwatch compatibility. A feature called “Notification Forwarding” has been spotted that would allow third party smartwatches to work better with iPhone notifications. Furthermore, users will be able to choose to show notifications on non-Apple accessories. As it stands now, third-party smartwatches and fitness trackers can show notifications from an iPhone, but what you can do with those notifications is quite limited.

Macworld also states that the code shows notifications can be pushed to only one accessory at a time. If a user chooses to show notifications on a third-party device, notifications on the Apple Watch will be disabled or the Apple Watch will be disconnected.

Another feature that the publication spotted was “AccessoryExtension” and this is meant to make pairing third-party wearables simpler. This framework is currently unfinished and it is unclear if and when it will make it to a final build.

Speaking of final builds, Apple has reportedly stopped signing iOS 18.6.2 which means those who chose to upgrade to iOS 26 will not be able to go back. The current public build for iOS 26 does have some issues such as increased battery drain, which Apple says is normal and will fix itself in a few days. Some Wi-Fi disconnection issues were also recently reported by iPhone 17 series users on iOS 26.