Apple reportedly testing AirPods and Apple Watch-exclusive features for third-party devices: Why this matters
Follow UsApple is testing proximity pairing and notification forwarding for third-party wearables in the EU.
Live Activities support is also being added under notification forwarding.
Features are part of Digital Markets Act compliance and may roll out in 2026.
After the USB-C implementation, Apple could open up AirPods and Apple Watch features to third-party devices, owing to regulatory pressure from the European Union (EU). Apple-focused publication MacRumours has said that the company is testing how iPhones interact with third-party earphones in iOS 26.5 beta. The new features include AirPods-style pairing, notification forwarding, and Live Activities support for non-Apple devices. While these changes are part of Apple’s compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, it is a sign of good times, perhaps for other markets, too. Here’s how and why this matters.
SurveyAirPods-like pairing for 3rd-party earphones
One of the most notable changes would be Apple bringing proximity-based pairing for third-party earphones. Similar to how AirPods connect, compatible earbuds and accessories can trigger a one-tap setup prompt when brought near an iPhone or iPad. This is very handy, as it not only ensures faster setup, but it is also better from a seamless usability standpoint. For example, on Mac, Apple earphones, including the Beats lineup, show a dedicated icon in the menu bar.
So for third-party earphone brands, this could remove one of Apple’s biggest ecosystem advantages, seamless onboarding.
The feature has been in testing across multiple iOS versions and remains in development, indicating Apple is still refining how much control it gives third-party hardware makers. Like the MFI program for Apple accessories, the proximity pairing could be expanded to select brands.
Live Activities and Notification Forwarding for 3rd-party wearables
Apple is also working on notification forwarding for third-party wearables. This would allow devices like smartwatches to receive, display, and respond to iPhone notifications, something that is currently limited to the Apple Watch.
However, there are limits in place. Notifications can only be active on one connected device at a time. If a third-party wearable is selected, the Apple Watch will stop receiving them. This suggests Apple is enabling access, but not fully removing ecosystem boundaries.
The update also includes Live Activities support. This means real-time updates, such as ride tracking or match scores, could appear on third-party wearables, not just the Apple Watch.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro in Digit Test Labs: 24 hours later
Why this matters
While for third-party brands, these changes could mean seamless onboarding just like Apple’s own wearables.
And for users, this opens up more choices. You are less tied to Apple’s accessories if core features work across brands.
The European Commission has indicated that such changes are expected to roll out in 2026, though Apple has not confirmed a specific timeline.
Also, while this is currently limited to the EU, there is a clear pattern. The regulatory changes in a big market like Europe often influence other governments and regulatory bodies. The move to USB-C on iPhones is a recent example.
Let’s see how Apple balances compliance with control. It may open access where required, but still define how far that access goes.
Keep reading Digit.in for similar stories.
Also Read: Best smartwatches with WhatsApp calling and messaging in 2026
