Apple is rolling out features to connect third-party devices in Europe.
Brussels: Apple is stepping up its game in Europe, making it easier to connect third-party gadgets to iPhones. With the upcoming iOS 26.3, users will enjoy the convenience of proximity pairing—a feature designed to comply with the European Union’s Digital Market Act (DMA). This update will primarily cater to devices like Sony headphones and Wear OS smartwatches.
The new update promises that you can connect devices simply by bringing them near your iPhone or iPad, similar to how AirPods pair. Forget the endless steps; it’s just one tap now. Additionally, if your smartwatch supports this feature, you’ll receive notifications from your iPhone, a perk usually exclusive to Apple Watches.
As an EU official stated, “The DMA creates new opportunities for developers to bring innovative products to Europe.” This shift is a step towards a more integrated digital realm favorable for all EU residents. The full rollout is expected by 2026, ensuring that these features become a standard in the EU digital experience.
However, it’s essential to note the trade-offs. When connecting a third-party device, notifications will be sent only to one device at a time—turning on alerts for your smartwatch will cut off notifications to your Apple Watch. This limitation may dampen the excitement for some users.
While proximity pairing might seem like a minor tweak, it offers a smoother experience for connecting devices via NFC. Yet, users shouldn’t expect the seamless switching that’s characteristic of devices within Apple’s own ecosystem.
Apple’s endeavors in adhering to the DMA regulations are intriguing, reflecting a strategy of fulfilling minimal requirements, often under the guise of privacy concerns. Notably, certain features, like iPhone mirroring on Mac, will be removed in Europe, sparing the company from extending these capabilities to Android or PC users.