The European Commission has made a landmark decision that could transform the smartwatch industry. On March 21, 2025, the EU mandated Apple to open its iOS platform to third-party smartwatch manufacturers, a move aimed at fostering competition and dismantling ecosystem barriers. This decision, part of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), challenges Apple’s long-standing strategy of locking users into its ecosystem. Now, companies like Garmin, Samsung, and Fossil will gain access to iOS features previously exclusive to Apple Watches, such as quick replies to notifications.

For years, Apple has maintained tight control over its ecosystem, ensuring seamless integration between iPhones and Apple Watches while limiting functionality for third-party devices. This approach often forced consumers to choose between staying within Apple’s ecosystem or sacrificing key features when opting for other smartwatches. The EU’s decision aims to level the playing field, empowering consumers to choose the best smartwatch for their needs without being tied to a specific ecosystem.

Victoria Song, a senior reporter at *The Verge* with extensive experience in wearables and health tech, emphasized the significance of this move. She noted, “If the Apple Watch is truly the best smartwatch out there, it should be able to defend that title even if third parties have access to iOS notifications.” Her statement reflects the EU’s belief that competition, not exclusivity, drives innovation.

Apple, however, has voiced strong opposition to the mandate. Marni Goldberg, an Apple spokesperson, argued that the decision forces Apple to “give away our new features for free to companies who don’t have to play by the same rules.” Goldberg warned that this could stifle innovation, as Apple may be less incentivized to develop cutting-edge features if competitors can freely integrate them.

But is Apple’s argument valid? The article points out that smartwatch innovation has plateaued in recent years. Companies like Samsung and Google have focused on refining existing designs rather than introducing groundbreaking features. Even Apple’s recent updates, such as the Apple Watch Ultra 2, have been incremental, offering minor changes like new colors rather than revolutionary advancements. This stagnation suggests that the industry needs a shake-up to reignite innovation.

The EU’s decision is a clear win for consumers. It allows users to choose smartwatches based on their preferences and needs, rather than being constrained by ecosystem limitations. For example, a marathon runner who prefers Garmin’s advanced training metrics can now use it with an iPhone without losing the ability to quickly reply to texts. This newfound flexibility could also inject new energy into a market that has struggled to excite consumers in recent years.

The article also highlights how Apple’s ecosystem lock-in has limited functionality for users. For instance, the heart rate feature on the Powerbeats Pro 2 is restricted to just seven apps on iOS, while Android users face no such limitations. This disparity underscores the broader issue of ecosystem exclusivity, which the EU is now addressing.

The EU’s decision is part of a larger effort to rein in the power of tech giants. Earlier articles from *The Verge* have detailed how the DMA is reshaping the tech landscape, forcing companies like Apple to open up their ecosystems. This latest move is a significant step toward creating a more level playing field in the smartwatch market.

In conclusion, the EU’s mandate is a victory for consumer choice and competition. While Apple argues that it could hinder innovation, the reality is that the smartwatch market has been stagnant for years. By fostering greater interoperability, the EU is not only breaking down barriers but also encouraging companies to innovate in ways that truly benefit consumers. As the smartwatch industry evolves, the days of being locked into a single ecosystem may soon be over—and that’s a win for everyone.