iOS 26.3 beta reveals how Apple plans to handle EU-required notification forwarding - 9to5Mac

iOS 26.3 beta: How Apple plans to handle EU‑required notification forwarding

Apple’s first iOS 26.3 beta introduces a Notification Forwarding interface as it prepares to meet the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which will require iPhones to let third-party accessories display forwarded notifications.

What’s new in iOS 26.3

• A new Notification Forwarding section appears in Settings > Notifications, letting you select a third-party device to receive iPhone alerts.
• Per-app controls allow you to choose which apps can forward notifications, similar to Apple Watch notification settings.
• The feature is built on a new public AccessoryNotifications framework, with documentation expected once Apple releases the iOS 26.3 SDK.

How it works and key limitations

• Only one accessory at a time is supported; when Notification Forwarding is enabled, notifications won’t appear on Apple Watch.
• During setup, Apple clarifies that forwarded notifications include the app name and the full content of each alert.

Privacy and security backdrop

• Apple has argued the DMA requirement introduces risks, since forwarded data can include messages, emails, medical alerts, and other sensitive notification content.
• The company has been laying groundwork for compliance since iOS 26.1.

What to watch next

• Expect developer documentation and SDK updates once Apple ships the iOS 26.3 SDK, detailing how accessories can integrate via AccessoryNotifications.

Source: https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/15/ios-26-3-beta-notification-forwarding/