Apple is working on features that will expand the capabilities of third-party smartwatches paired with the iPhone. In the code of the beta version of iOS 26.1, mentions of Notification Forwarding were found - an option that will allow you to redirect notifications to a connected device. Macworld writes about this.
According to the description, users will be able to choose which apps send notifications to the accessory, but forwarding will only be available for one device at a time. If this feature is active, notifications will not appear on the Apple Watch.
There are also references to AccessoryExtension, a new framework for connecting third-party accessories to the iPhone. Although the wording leaves room for interpretation, it is likely that this refers to third-party smartwatches.
The expansion of support for such devices could be Apple's response to the EU's Digital Markets Act, which requires the company to provide access to features previously exclusive to the Apple Watch. The issue is also part of an antitrust case against Apple in the US, where the Justice Department accuses the company of limiting the functionality of third-party watches.
It is not yet known whether Notification Forwarding will be available only in the EU or whether Apple plans to roll out the innovation globally.