Skip to content

Apple's iOS 26.1 Brings 'Slide to Stop' Alarms, Boosts Third-Party Smartwatch Support

Say goodbye to accidental alarm turn-offs with iOS 26.1's new 'slide to stop' gesture. Plus, get ready for better third-party smartwatch support, thanks to EU regulatory influence.

In this image we can see there is a mobile and a watch.
In this image we can see there is a mobile and a watch.

Apple's iOS 26.1 Brings 'Slide to Stop' Alarms, Boosts Third-Party Smartwatch Support

Apple is set to introduce a new gesture in the upcoming iOS 26.1 update, requiring users to swipe across the screen to turn off news and timers. This change comes in response to user reports of accidental deactivations in the previous iOS 26 update. Additionally, Apple is working on improved support for third-party smartwatches, influenced by EU regulatory pressure under the Digital Markets Act.

The new 'slide to stop' gesture, reminiscent of the classic 'slide to unlock' feature from earlier iOS versions, aims to prevent unintentional news deactivations. It requires a more deliberate action, making it harder to turn off news by mistake. This new operation will apply to both news and timers, suggesting Apple's desire for a consistent user interface.

Influenced by the EU Commission's request under the Digital Markets Act, Apple is also enhancing support for third-party smartwatches in iOS 26.1. This includes improved forwarding of notifications to non-Apple devices, making them more compatible with iOS. The update is expected to be released by the end of October, following Apple's typical update cycles.

With iOS 26.1, Apple is addressing user concerns about accidental news deactivations and expanding support for third-party smartwatches, demonstrating a commitment to user experience and compliance with regulatory pressures. Users can expect the update by the end of October.

Read also:

Latest