iOS 26.5 updates unlocks Apple Watch and AirPod features for third-party alternatives — but only if you live in…
- iOS 26.5 is rolling out to our iPhones
- It includes new third-party wearables support for previously exclusive Apple Watch and AirPods features
- This is only available in the EU for now
Apple’s latest iOS 26.5 update is bringing some AirPods and Apple Watch-exclusive features to third-party earbuds and wearables — but only for phones in the EU.
This is being done so Apple can better comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which means Apple has to relinquish some of the software benefits that were exclusive to its own hardware and bring it to third-party smartwatches like those made by Garmin, Amazfit and Huawei, and third-party earbuds and headphones.
For smartwatch users the biggest update will be the ability to respond to message notifications with reactions or replies. Currently you can only see iOS notifications on third-party tech, whereas Apple Watchusers can send a response through the...
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