Apple has announced plans to facilitate a smoother transition for users switching from iOS to Android in response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which took effect today. The move, part of a broader compliance strategy with the new legislation, includes support for third-party app stores rev, used terms for EU developers and enhanced data portability measures to ease the transfer of information from iPhones to non-Apple devices.
While the specific solution is still under development, Apple commits to its availability by fall 2025. This commitment is part of a document outlining Apple’s adaptations to the DMA, designed to foster greater competition within the app market by reducing Apple’s control over the App Store and iOS. Interestingly, Apple has introduced new fees for developers opting for DMA rules. This move has faced criticism from the developer community.
The DMA’s provisions extend to data portability, prompting Apple to update its Data & Privacy website. This update will enable users to export their App Store data to approved third parties. Currently, Apple users can transfer their iCloud Photos to Google Photos and download data from various Apple apps. Soon, they will have the option for daily or weekly downloads of App Store data, with continuous updates to ensure currency.
Apple’s details regarding the transition to Android remain vague, indicating the development of a user-friendly solution to support data transfer to non-Apple mobile operating systems. Although “Android” is not explicitly mentioned, it is clear that Google’s OS stands to gain significantly from such an initiative.
Apple also revealed plans for a new feature that will export browser data to a new browser on the same device. This feature is expected to launch between late this year and early 2025.
Currently, Android newcomers can use Google’s “Switch to Android” app for iOS to migrate essential data to their new device. However, this process removes some data and requires users to deactivate iMessage to ensure message delivery to their Android devices. The specifics of Apple’s forthcoming solution remain unspecified, particularly regarding whether it will address these issues.
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