According to a new rumor, Apple is working on software updates that will enable users to pair their Apple Watch with multiple Apple devices, allowing for multi-device connectivity with iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and overcoming the current restriction of being paired to just one iPhone.

Expanding the Apple Watch ecosystem

At present, an Apple Watch can be paired with just one iPhone, and although multiple Apple Watch models can be connected to the same iPhone, Apple does not offer the ability to pair or sync Apple Watches to other devices within its ecosystem.

When an Apple Watch is connected to an iPhone, it can work in tandem with an iPad signed into the same Apple ID for Apple Fitness+ workout routines on the iPad’s screen. Mac users can also use their Apple Watch to unlock their computer, authenticate apps and view passwords, and authorize online Apple Pay transactions. However, these exceptions are the current extent of multi-device interactions.

According to Twitter user @analyst941, Apple intends to change these limitations, allowing an Apple Watch to sync across multiple iPhones, iPads, and Macs, rather than being tied to a single iPhone. The exact implementation is uncertain, but iCloud syncing, similar to AirPods functionality across devices, could be a possibility.

Uncertainty around implementation and timeline

It is unclear whether an iPhone will still be required for setting up an Apple Watch before it can sync with other Apple devices logged into the same iCloud account. The leaker also mentioned that they are unsure if this change will be introduced with iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS 14 this year, or if it will be postponed until 2024.

The anonymous source behind today’s rumor previously leaked accurate information about the iPhone 14 Pro’s Dynamic Island before the device’s announcement last year. However, they do not yet have a long-term track record with rumors, so there is no guarantee that the latest information they shared will prove accurate.