iOS 26.1 update hints that Apple may be opening its walled garden to third-party smartwatches: Here's what we know

Apple released its latest iOS 26.1 Developer beta update on Tuesday bringing in support for more languages for its Apple Intelligence features along with some UI improvements.

However, a new report by Macworld has now found that the iPhone maker could finally be working on making third party wearables more compatible with iOS in the future.

The report found some ‘some notable under-the-hood changes’ in th snipped of code in iOS 26.1 that show Apple's willingness to make its software more compatible with third party accessories and smart watches.

After the feature is released, it could be enabled in Settings menu.

However, another strings of code suggests that notification may only be forwarded to “one accessory at a time” and enbaling the new option would disable notifications on the Apple Watch.

The iOS 26.1 beta also includes some refences to new frameworks related to accessory pairing called “AccessoryExtension.” which could allow users with an easier method for pairing their third-party device with an iPhone.

The report also cautions that the new features for third party accessories may not be available in all regions and could solely be available for users in the European Union.

The new features could be a reaction to the two decisions made by the European Commission in March which specifies how Apple must make iOS more interopeable with third-party developers and devices makers and requires that third party accessories get support iPhone notifications.