iPhone users in the European Union can now pair third-party wearables with functionality previously reserved for Apple-branded devices [1].
This update represents a significant shift in how Apple manages its ecosystem within the EU. By allowing non-Apple hardware to access deeper system integration, the company is reducing the hardware lock-in that typically encourages users to purchase Apple Watches and AirPods.
The new capabilities allow third-party smartwatches and headphones to receive notifications and live activities directly from the iPhone [1]. This level of interoperability mirrors the seamless experience found with AirPods-like pairing, where the device acts as a more integrated extension of the phone rather than a basic peripheral [1].
Previously, third-party wearables often faced limitations regarding which types of data could be pushed from iOS to the device. The current update ensures that live activities, dynamic updates that appear on a lock screen or in the Dynamic Island, can now be forwarded to compatible non-Apple hardware [1].
Apple has not provided a specific technical roadmap for other regions, but the rollout is currently limited to the European Union [1]. The change follows ongoing regulatory pressure within the bloc to ensure fair competition and interoperability between dominant software platforms and third-party hardware manufacturers.
“iPhone users in the European Union can now pair third-party wearables with functionality previously reserved for Apple-branded devices.”
This move likely stems from the European Union's Digital Markets Act, which mandates that 'gatekeeper' companies open their ecosystems to third-party interoperability. By extending notification and live activity support to non-Apple wearables, Apple is mitigating the risk of regulatory non-compliance and fines while acknowledging a shift toward a more open hardware ecosystem in the European market.
