The latest beta version of watchOS 4 suggests support for third-party developers could be coming in certain aspects. Ever since the Silicon Valley-based company launched watchOS back in 2015, Apple has limited third-party customizations almost entirely. However, when it comes to their NanoTimeKit, this could be about to change.
The NanoTimeKit is responsible for various features, among which is the watch face configurations of the wearable in question. Until now, owners of Apple Watch devices have been able to choose only from a select range of watch faces created by Apple or those introduced via the company’s partnership with Disney. As part of the watchOS 4.3.1 beta, however, it appears Apple will finally be opening up watch face configurations to developers. This is due to a new line of code that boasts a NanoTimeKit developer tools server, although, in its present state, the server cannot be accessed. Interestingly, though, a message that states that "this is where the 3rd party face config bundle generation would happen" accompanies the line of code, thus hinting at third-party support in the near future. In doing so, developers outside of Apple will be able to commence work on their own, personalized watch faces.
Apple is yet to officially confirm the new developer support but, considering the new line of code that is present, it appears the company is at least considering it. Ultimately, however, Apple could choose to scrap the idea before any release happens. In any case, if the company does choose to go ahead with the developer kit, it will likely be announced at the company’s annual WWDC developer conference, which begins June 4. Here, the company is expected to announce a number of new software updates, including watchOS 5, which could perhaps include the new third-party watch face support.
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