Apple is changing how Wi-Fi network syncing between iPhones and Apple Watches works in the EU to comply with the Digital Markets Act. Currently, Apple Watches get the complete list of saved Wi-Fi networks from an iPhone during setup. Starting with iOS and WatchOS 26.2, new EU Apple Watches will only sync networks that the iPhone joins after the watch is paired. Apple is also launching a new API for third-party accessories in the EU to enable similar, but limited, Wi-Fi syncing. These steps aim to balance user privacy with regulatory requirements without granting third-party devices broad access to user data. Most existing Apple Watch users in the EU won’t notice significant changes. The move illustrates Apple’s approach to regulatory compliance, prioritizing privacy and product control over developer access.
https://daringfireball.net/2025/11/apple_eu_dma_iphone_accessories_wi-fi_sync