Apple is adjusting how its iPhones and Apple Watches share Wi-Fi network data in the European Union, a move driven by new EU interoperability laws that will mean a less seamless experience for users.
Starting with iOS 26.2 and watchOS 26.2, Apple Watches in EU member states will no longer automatically receive a full history of Wi-Fi networks saved on their paired iPhone. This change marks a departure from a previous feature that simplified initial device setup.
The tech giant states the alteration is designed to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) while also strengthening user privacy. For customers, this means a likely increase in manual Wi-Fi connections on their Apple Watch when it is not directly connected to the iPhone.
Historically, when a new Apple Watch was set up, it would automatically sync all Wi-Fi networks stored on the iPhone. This process was encrypted and private, with Apple itself not having access to the data.
Under the new regulations, this comprehensive initial transfer is no longer permitted. Instead, Wi-Fi network information will be shared on a case-by-case basis. Sharing will occur only when both the iPhone and Apple Watch are in close proximity, and the iPhone connects to a network first.
For example, if an iPhone connects to a new Wi-Fi network while near its Apple Watch, the network name and password will be shared with the watch. If only the Apple Watch is present and attempts to join a known network, the user will need to input the password directly on the device.
The DMA mandates that interoperability functions must be available to third-party accessories under the same conditions as those from the manufacturer. Apple argues that if it were to maintain the full Wi-Fi history transfer, it would be compelled to offer this capability to other brands.
Apple expressed concerns about guaranteeing how other manufacturers would handle such sensitive user data. A complete list of a user’s Wi-Fi networks could reveal patterns of life, frequently visited locations, and daily routines.
By limiting this sharing, Apple aims to prevent external manufacturers from gaining a full record of previously used networks. This reduces the risk of creating user profiles based on Wi-Fi connection habits.
However, critics suggest the EU’s approach is effectively pushing Apple to adopt an ecosystem model akin to Android. This, they argue, diverges from the integrated experience many Apple users sought when choosing the platform.