iOS 26.3: Proximity Pairing in EU
Juli Clover (Hacker News, Reddit):
The Digital Markets Act requires Apple to provide third-party accessories with the same capabilities and access to device features that Apple’s own products get. In iOS 26.3, EU wearable device makers can now test proximity pairing and improved notifications.
Here are the new capabilities that Apple is adding:
- Proximity pairing - Devices like earbuds will be able to pair with an iOS device in an AirPods-like way by bringing the accessory close to an iPhone or iPad to initiate a simple, one-tap pairing process. Pairing third-party devices will no longer require multiple steps.
- Notifications - Third-party accessories like smart watches will be able to receive notifications from the iPhone. Users will be able to view and react to incoming notifications, which is functionality normally limited to the Apple Watch.
I’m looking forward to Apple’s blog post about how easier Bluetooth pairing will put users at risk. The notification forwarding was previously announced, but I didn’t realize it also included support for reactions.
However, there’s no indication that it will allow seamless switching between devices as you can do with Apple’s [AirPods], for instance.
Previously:
- iOS 26.3: Notification Forwarding in EU
- iOS 26.2 to Open Up iPhone–Apple Watch Wi-Fi Sync in EU
- AirPods Live Translation Expands to the EU
- Apple’s Thoughts on the DMA
- Apple Appeals EU Digital Markets Act Interoperability Rules
- DMA Compliance: Watch and Headphone Interoperability
- Apple Restricts Pebble From Being Awesome With iPhones
- EU iOS Envy
- DMA Compliance: Interoperability Requests
