The European Union is urging Apple to make iOS features like AirDrop and AirPlay accessible to Android and other platforms.
This demand is part of the EU’s broader effort to promote interoperability between devices and ensure fair competition in the tech industry.
According to a new document from the European Commission, Apple may need to open up key iOS functionalities to third parties.
For instance, the EU wants AirDrop, which currently only works between iOS and macOS devices, to be accessible on other operating systems. Apple would be required to provide the technical specifications needed for third-party developers to integrate AirDrop into their apps or devices.
Similarly, the EU is pushing for AirPlay to work across platforms, allowing Android users to send and receive content via AirPlay—a feature currently limited to iOS and select third-party devices like smart TVs.
The EU also wants iOS notifications to function on non-Apple smartwatches, just as they do on the Apple Watch. Additionally, the EU has proposed that third-party apps should be allowed to run in the background on iOS with the same privileges as Apple’s native apps, addressing a common limitation faced by developers.
Apple has expressed concerns about the proposal, particularly around privacy and security. The company argues that opening up features like AirPlay could expose sensitive user data.
Apple specifically mentioned Meta as a potential risk, claiming that granting interoperability to the social media giant could create new privacy challenges and compromise user security.
The EU is currently seeking feedback on this proposal, with a consultation period running until January 9, 2025. If Apple fails to comply once the rules are enforced, it could face significant fines.
This development is part of the EU’s ongoing efforts to regulate big tech companies and ensure that consumers have more flexibility in how they use their devices.
