Apple appears to be softening its previous strict approach, allowing iPhones to interact more fully with smartwatches beyond the Apple ecosystem. This development is fantastic news for users who prefer alternatives to the Apple Watch.
iPhones May Soon Support Richer Notification Features on Non-Apple Wearables
While rumors have circulated for some time, recent evidence from the iOS 26.3 beta confirms the introduction of a new feature called Notification Forwarding. This function enables notifications to be forwarded from an iPhone to smartwatches and other wearable devices that are not made by Apple.
This upcoming setting will likely be part of a future iOS 26 release and may initially be limited to European users. Unlike current notification mirroring—which often only shows alerts with limited interaction—the new Notification Forwarding aims to permit deeper engagement. For instance, Garmin watch users today can merely dismiss notifications without replying or taking further action. Apple’s change could open the door for users to respond to messages and interact more seamlessly from third-party wearables.
Although it may seem minor, this development is notable because it marks a shift in Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem. At launch, the feature will allow forwarding notifications to only one non-Apple device at a time, with users selectively controlling which apps can send alerts. Notifications will include the app name and full message text, enhancing their usefulness over simple vibration or banner alerts.
A Meaningful Step Towards Cross-Device Compatibility
This is a small but significant step toward better interoperability between iPhones and multiple smartwatch brands. It hints at Apple’s gradual willingness to loosen restrictions while still maintaining user control and security.
Join the Conversation
Would improved iPhone support for non-Apple smartwatches influence your next smartwatch purchase?
Current Poll Results (21 votes):
- Yes, I’d finally buy a smartwatch: 19.05%
- Maybe, depends on how deep the integration goes: 33.33%
- No, I’m already using an Apple Watch: 38.1%
- No, I don’t care about smartwatch features: 9.52%
My Thoughts
With upcoming devices like the Apple Watch Series 11 and continual improvements in iOS—such as better app functionality in iOS 26.2 and smart home enhancements planned through iOS 28—Apple is clearly evolving its ecosystem. Allowing notifications to work more fluidly with third-party wearables could be the start of a more open and versatile user experience.
