Apple Opens Key iOS Features to Third-Party Devices

The European Union has issued precise specifications detailing Apple's required improvements to iOS interoperability, with the guidelines clarifying which functionalities may become accessible to competing smartwatches, headphones, and speakers.

The technical standards adopted by the European Commission this Tuesday provide explicit instructions for opening iPhone and iPad operating systems to meet Digital Markets Act (DMA) compliance. These measures involve two distinct approaches: one streamlines the application procedure for developers seeking interoperability with Apple’s ecosystem, while the other—more impactful for consumers—explicitly lists nine iOS-exclusive connectivity features that must be made available to third-party platforms. According to the EU mandate, most features must be accessible “by the end of 2025 at the latest.”

A key requirement involves opening iOS notification access, enabling third-party smartwatches to display and interact with alerts in ways currently exclusive to Apple Watch. Similarly, background app functionality will allow non-Apple devices to reliably receive real-time data such as news feeds and weather updates from iPhones.

Features like SharePlay and automatic audio switching—which let Apple headphones seamlessly transition between Apple devices—must now be supported by third-party audio equipment, reducing the need for AirPods. Third-party VR headsets will also gain access to high-bandwidth iPhone connections currently reserved for Apple hardware.

Cross-platform data transfer via AirDrop and AirPlay will be mandated, with iOS required to support alternative services to both. Additional enhancements will simplify setup processes for accessory devices, enable automatic Wi-Fi network connections through iPhones, and allow contactless payment credential transfers via NFC.

These specifications are legally binding under DMA obligations. Failure to implement them by designated deadlines could trigger non-compliance investigations, potentially resulting in fines up to 10% of Apple’s global annual revenue.

Apple retains the right to challenge the ruling through judicial review. The company has already signaled potential opposition, stating that the EU’s requirements are “bad for our products and for our European users.” Nevertheless, the EU remains confident its ruling will ultimately open Apple’s ecosystem to broader third-party integration.