Apple’s New iPhone Policy Allows Galaxy Watch Support With One Major Limitation

Apple iOS Update Paves Way for Galaxy Watch iPhone Compatibility.A future iPhone update could finally allow Samsung Galaxy Watches to work seamlessly with Apple devices. Code discovered in an early iOS 26.1 beta reveals a new “Notification Forwarding” feature. This development signals a significant shift in Apple’s walled-garden approach to accessories.The move is widely seen as a response to new European Union regulations. It would mark the first time modern Wear OS-based Samsung watches gain official functionality with iPhones.

Breaking Down the New Notification Feature

The feature was found by Macworld in the iOS 26.1 beta 1 code. It explicitly allows users to mirror iPhone notifications on a paired non-Apple device. This would provide basic alert functionality for smartwatches like the Galaxy Watch series.However, the feature has a key limitation. It will only forward notifications to one accessory at a time. Pairing a Galaxy Watch would automatically disable notifications on an Apple Watch. This ensures a single-device experience for the user.

EU Regulations Drive the Change

This interoperability appears to be driven by the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA aims to force large tech companies to open up their ecosystems. Apple’s compliance may lead to a more connected device landscape in Europe.The big question is global availability. Industry analysts suggest Apple may limit this feature to the European market to comply with the law. Users in other regions, including the United States, might not see this functionality.

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This potential change represents a major step towards device interoperability. The new Galaxy Watch iPhone compatibility would offer consumers more choice. It underscores how regulations are directly impacting tech giant policies.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Will my Galaxy Watch work fully with an iPhone after this?

No. The feature only enables basic notification mirroring. Advanced health tracking, call handling, and app integration will likely remain exclusive to Apple Watch.

Q2: Why is Apple considering this change now?

Apple is likely adapting to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. The law requires large “gatekeeper” companies to ensure interoperability with rival products.

Q3: When will this feature be available?

It was found in an early test version of iOS 26.1. A public release would not happen until late 2025, following Apple’s typical annual software cycle.

Q4: Could this feature come to the United States?

It is possible, but not guaranteed. Apple may choose to implement the change only in regions where it is legally mandated, like the EU.

Q5: Did older Samsung watches work with iPhones?

Yes. Older Samsung smartwatches using the Tizen operating system had limited iPhone pairing for notifications. This ended when Samsung switched to Wear OS.