Apple is rolling out a series of changes designed to increase interoperability with Android devices and third-party accessories, primarily driven by requirements under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). These updates, arriving in iOS 26.3, focus on simplifying data transfer between platforms and expanding connectivity options for users within the EU, though some features will be available globally.
Seamless Switching: Transferring Data to Android
One of the most significant updates is a new “Transfer to Android” system. This feature allows iPhone users to wirelessly migrate data – including photos, messages, notes, and apps – to their new Android devices. The process utilizes a direct Wi-Fi connection between the two smartphones, streamlining a process that previously involved more cumbersome methods like iCloud backups or third-party apps. Apple notes that sensitive data, such as Health data, paired Bluetooth devices, and password-protected notes, will not be transferred for privacy and security reasons.
This move comes as a direct response to the DMA, which mandates that designated services like iOS and Android ensure effective data portability for users. The collaboration between Apple and Google on this feature highlights the impact of the DMA in pushing the two tech giants to work together on user-facing improvements. While the feature is a direct result of the DMA, Apple and Google have indicated it will be available worldwide, not limited to the European Union.
Beyond Data: Proximity Pairing and Notifications
The changes extend beyond simple data transfer. IOS 26.3 introduces “proximity pairing” for third-party accessories, mirroring the ease of pairing AirPods. By bringing a compatible accessory near an iPhone or iPad, users can initiate a one-tap pairing process, eliminating the need to navigate through Bluetooth settings. This feature leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to establish a quick and seamless connection.
Perhaps more impactful is the introduction of notification forwarding. For the first time, iPhone notifications can be mirrored on third-party smartwatches, such as those running Wear OS. This functionality, currently limited to the EU, allows users to view and interact with incoming iPhone notifications on a non-Apple wearable. However, users will only be able to forward notifications to one connected device at a time, and enabling notifications on a third-party device will disable them on an Apple Watch.
The EU Commission views these changes as a positive step towards a more interconnected digital ecosystem. An EU spokesperson stated that the new capabilities are “another step towards a more inter-connected digital ecosystem to the benefit of all EU citizens,” and that the functionality will be “fully available” in the bloc in .
EU-Specific Interoperability Tools
In addition to proximity pairing and notification forwarding, Apple is implementing several other interoperability tools specifically for developers in Europe. These include expanded NFC roles and high-bandwidth peer-to-peer Wi-Fi capabilities. These changes are intended to provide developers with greater flexibility and control over how their accessories interact with iOS devices, fostering innovation within the EU market.
A Gradual Shift Towards Openness
Apple’s compliance with the DMA is prompting a gradual shift towards greater openness, and interoperability. The introduction of eSIM transfer last October, which simplified the process of moving eSIMs between iPhones and Android phones, was an earlier indication of this trend. These changes represent a significant departure from Apple’s traditionally walled-garden approach, and signal a willingness to adapt to regulatory pressures and user demands for greater choice and flexibility.
While the initial rollout of some features, like notification forwarding, is limited to the EU, the broader implications are far-reaching. The DMA is forcing Apple to rethink its ecosystem and prioritize interoperability, potentially setting a precedent for other tech companies and shaping the future of the mobile landscape. The success of these new features will likely depend on the willingness of third-party accessory manufacturers to adopt and support the new standards.
The changes in iOS 26.3, while seemingly incremental, represent a fundamental shift in Apple’s approach to interoperability. By embracing data portability and opening up its ecosystem to third-party accessories, Apple is responding to both regulatory pressures and a growing demand for a more connected and user-friendly mobile experience. The long-term impact of these changes remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly mark a significant moment in the evolution of the iOS platform.
