Apple is developing two major upgrades for iPhones to improve pairing with third-party smartwatches, including models from Huawei and Garmin. These changes stem from the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires companies like Apple to open their systems to more brands.
Garmin smartwatch owners have reported that their devices now connect to iPhones even when the Garmin Connect app is not active. Huawei users have observed similar improvements, with their watches syncing in the background on iPhones without needing to open the dedicated app. This background-syncing capability is currently available in Europe.
Prior to these updates, only the Apple Watch connected seamlessly with iPhones. The new regulations are altering this for EU users by enhancing iOS functionality for third-party device connections and data exchange. Huawei and Garmin watches can now pair with iPhones without the corresponding app running in the background, allowing continuous data tracking.
The European Commission stated that third-party smartwatches will see further improvements with the upcoming iOS 26.3 update. Apple plans to introduce a Notification Forwarding feature, which will display prompts on accessory products such as watches or smart bands. Details on additional features in the iOS 26.3 update remain unclear.
These developments address previous pairing difficulties faced by Huawei smartwatch users with iPhones. The changes enable Huawei and Garmin devices to integrate more effectively, ensuring users do not lose tracking data.
