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Garmin Smartwatches Gain Live Activities via iOS 26.5 Interoperability Update

iOS 26.5 interoperability

Garmin smartwatches are receiving a significant functional boost in the European Union following the release of iOS 26.5. This software update enables third-party wearables to access the Live Activities API, a feature previously exclusive to the Apple Watch. Users with compatible Garmin hardware can now view real-time data updates, such as Uber ride progress, flight statuses, and live sports scores, directly on their wrists through iOS 26.5 interoperability.

The expansion of this feature is a direct result of the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). This regulation requires Apple to open its ecosystem to competitors, ensuring that third-party device manufacturers can offer similar levels of integration as Apple's own products. To facilitate this, Apple has added a new Forwarding section within the Notification settings on iPhones running the latest firmware.

How iOS 26.5 Interoperability Works for Garmin Users

Accessing Live Activities on a non-Apple device requires specific hardware and geographic location. As of May 17, 2026, the feature is restricted to users located within the European Union. Garmin has confirmed that high-end models, specifically the Fenix 8 and the Forerunner 975, are among the first to support this data forwarding capability. Users must update their iPhones to iOS 26.5 and ensure their Garmin Connect app is current to enable the link.

This update changes the utility of Garmin devices for iPhone users who previously had to choose between deep system integration and specialized fitness tracking. By allowing iOS 26.5 interoperability, Garmin owners no longer miss out on the glanceable, persistent notifications that define the modern iOS experience. The system works by mirroring the dynamic data blocks that usually appear on the iPhone Lock Screen or Dynamic Island.

While the rollout is currently limited to the EU market, it establishes a technical framework for how Apple might handle third-party wearable integration globally in the future. European Garmin users can now enjoy a more seamless experience when tracking a food delivery or monitoring a football match without needing to reach for their phones.

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