Simpler iPhone to Android switching: Apple is working on a tool to ease moving data

Simpler iPhone to Android switching: Apple is working on a tool to ease moving data،

As the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) comes into force, major tech players like Apple are adapting to meet regulatory requirements or face substantial penalties. Apple, recognized as a guardian, is preparing to make another adjustment to the ecosystem.

According to The edgeApple is expected to allow EU-based iPhone users to uninstall its Safari browser by the end of 2024. At the same time, the company is developing a “user-friendly” data transfer feature to move data from an iPhone to another. non-Apple phone, aka one android phone. This feature is expected to roll out by fall 2025, as noted in a recent compliance document.

The document does not specify whether these features will be accessible globally or limited to EU users. However, many of Apple's previously announced DMA compliance plans, such as running browser engines other than WebKit and installing third-party app stores, are currently limited to the EU.

According to Apple's document, the phone's data transfer feature is

a solution that helps mobile operating system vendors develop more user-friendly solutions for transferring data from an iPhone to a non-Apple phone.

The document also mentions that plans for this feature will leverage existing migration tools already offered by other companies.

Google already offers the “Switch to Android” app for iOS, but the app has limitations in transferring certain data, such as paid apps, Safari bookmarks, alarms, and various files. We hope that Apple's next solution will fill some of these gaps.

With the latest iOS 17.4 update, Apple introduced significant changes to the rules of its European ecosystem, giving users more flexibility, including sideloading apps from third-party stores and choosing default browsers.

The EU DMA aims to create a more level playing field for digital competition. It targets large platforms designated as gatekeepers that control access to online services. Listed gatekeepers include Apple, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Bytedance's TikTok and Amazon. These controllers must follow new rules to ensure competition and give users more choice.