Apple and Google give in to the EU: interoperable smartphones by June 2026

May 2026. As a direct result of the DMA, iPhone and Android users will soon benefit from new features on their devices. The new features will also open opportunities for developers and providers of connected devices.

Data portability

Apple and Google will roll out a new data transfer solution: a historic development that simplifies switching between the two ecosystems. Users will be able to easily transfer data between iPhone and Android when they set up a new device, including contacts, messages, photos, and third-party app data. In simple terms, this means that an iPhone or Android user who wants to keep this data will not be “obliged” to purchase a new device from the same ecosystem.
o    In turn, app developers will more easily retain their users when these users switch from an iPhone to an Android device and vice versa.
o    This solution is the direct result of the ongoing dialogue under the DMA, which requires designated services (including iOS and Android) to ensure effective data portability, and is the outcome of two years of intense and constructive exchanges between the gatekeepers and the Commission.

Interoperability

o    By 1 June 2026, as a result of the Commission’s Decision on interoperability of Connected Devices adopted in March 2025, Apple has to roll out new interoperability solutions that allow third parties to access several features, including
- First, users of third-party accessories (mainly smartwatches) will be able to view the full content of iPhone notifications and react to them, a feature so far reserved to users of the Apple Watch.
- Second, users will be able to pair their non-Apple devices (e.g. watches, earbuds, speakers, etc.) simply by bringing them close to the iPhone, similarly to what was already possible with Apple’s own accessories. 
- Third, users of third-party headphones will be able to automatically switch to a call on their laptop while listening to music on the iPhone, as is already possible for Apple devices.

Source: European Commission

Reference

European Commission, Directorate-General for Competition, Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology EU (2026): Factsheet – How the DMA is making smartphones better: interoperability and data portability case studies. Bruxelles, May 11.