Over the past five years, the practice of buying a smartwatch that works equally well with both iOS and Android phones has fallen out of fashion, with smartwatch guides on the internet now divided along these lines, or with a best for iPhone owner or best for Android owner category.
Third-party smartwatches lacking the ability to send quick replies via iOS used to be a turn-off for many consumers, who viewed such devices as an easy way to stay connected without using their phones.
EU regulations are now requiring Apple to allow third-party smartwatch makers to display and interact with iOS notifications, which should help consumers choose the best smartwatch for their needs, rather than being shoehorned into buying one that matches their phone.
Choice is also arguably a good thing for gadget makers, giving them the incentive to innovate and offer new features and designs, rather than relying on ecosystem lock-in, as has been the case recently.