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Apple just released the first beta build of iOS 26.3, introducing several new features set to arrive on compatible iPhones. The update adds a new transfer tool designed to make switching to an Android device much more seamless, a Weather wallpaper section for lock screen customization, and, most notably, support for viewing iPhone notifications on third-party wearables.
According to MacRumors, the iOS 26 beta build includes a new “Notification Forwarding” setting that, when enabled, forwards incoming iPhone notifications to wearables from other manufacturers. This means iPhone users will now be able to view notifications on non-Apple smartwatches, albeit with some limitations.
Users will be able to enable the feature from the Notifications section of the Settings app and pick a wearable on which they wish to receive notifications. They can also specify whether they want to receive all notifications or alerts from specific apps on the selected wearable.
The feature’s description notes that only one wearable can receive forwarded notifications at a time. It also adds that when Notification Forwarding is enabled, alerts will no longer appear on an Apple Watch connected to the same iPhone.
Despite these limitations, this feature marks a notable change in Apple’s stance on supporting notifications on third-party wearables. The update will open the door to broader accessory compatibility, allowing iPhone users to pair their devices with smartwatches from other brands and receive alerts that include details like the app name and notification content.
Notification Forwarding is currently limited to the EU
Apple appears to be adding this feature as a result of regulatory pressure in the EU, which requires the company to provide third-party smartwatches and other devices with access to notifications and features previously reserved for the Apple Watch. As a result, Notification Forwarding is currently limited to European markets, even though the setting may appear in other regions.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will expand availability to other regions by the time iOS 26.3 hits the stable channel. The update is expected to roll out to all compatible iPhones next month.
