Apple has expanded GymKit support to iPhone and AirPods Pro 3 with iOS 27, bringing the fitness connectivity feature beyond Apple Watch for the first time. The 2017-launched technology previously required users to wear an Apple Watch and tap it against equipment. This expansion opens up new possibilities for gym-goers who prefer not to wear a watch during workouts.

The feature now allows iPhone and AirPods Pro 3 users to connect directly to supported cardio machines including treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, and stair-steppers. Through two-way data exchange, devices sync metrics like speed, pace, distance, calories, and heart rate in real time, aligning what users see on their devices with what the equipment displays.

This move demonstrates Apple's commitment to fitness technology and removes a hardware barrier for users who want accurate workout data. The expansion could significantly impact gym equipment manufacturers who now need to ensure compatibility with iPhone and AirPods Pro 3, potentially reshaping the fitness tracking landscape beyond wearables.