# Apple Forced to Open Key iOS Features to Third-Party Devices — Big Changes Coming in 2025 URL: https://technosports.co.in/apple-ios-features-for-third-party-devices-ap/ Published: 2025-03-26 Updated: 2025-03-26 Author: REMYA BABU S **Apple iOS features for third-party devices:**In a landmark decision, the **European Union (EU)** is forcing Apple to **open up key iOS features** to third-party devices, enabling smartwatches, headphones, and speakers from other brands to access functionalities previously exclusive to Apple’s ecosystem. This move, driven by the **Digital Markets Act (DMA)**, mandates Apple to comply with the EU’s new interoperability rules — a decision that could reshape the future of iOS devices and third-party gadget integration. ![Apple Forced to Open Key iOS Features to Third-Party Devices — Big Changes Coming in 2025](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-168-png.webp) ## ***Apple to Open iOS Features to Third-Party Gadgets Following EU Mandate*** ### **Why Is Apple Being Forced to Open iOS?** The EU’s **Digital Markets Act (DMA)** aims to promote competition by preventing tech giants like Apple from monopolizing their platforms. According to the latest guidance issued by the European Commission, Apple needs to make iOS more **interoperable** with third-party devices by the **end of 2025**. The ruling highlights two primary objectives: - **Streamlined Application Process for Developers:** Developers will be able to integrate their apps and services more easily within Apple’s ecosystem. - **Open iOS Features to Third-Party Devices:** Apple is required to provide access to various iOS-exclusive features, giving third-party gadgets similar functionality that was previously restricted to Apple devices. ## **Top iOS Features Coming to Third-Party Devices** Here’s a breakdown of the most exciting iOS features that will be accessible to non-Apple gadgets: ![Apple Forced to Open Key iOS Features to Third-Party Devices — Big Changes Coming in 2025](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-170-png.webp) ### 📩 **1. iOS Notifications for Smartwatches** Currently, only the **Apple Watch** can fully display and interact with iOS notifications. With the new mandate, third-party smartwatches will be able to: ✅ Display notifications from iPhones. ✅ Allow users to interact with notifications directly from their devices. ### 🎧 **2. Automatic Audio Switching for Headphones** A feature that allows[**AirPods**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AirPods) to automatically switch between Apple devices (like from an iPad to an iPhone for an incoming call) will soon be available for: ✅ Third-party headphones and earbuds. ✅ Wireless headsets that connect to iOS devices. ### 🎮 **3. High-Bandwidth iPhone Connections for VR Headsets** Third-party VR headsets will be able to leverage the **same high-bandwidth iPhone connections** currently reserved for Apple hardware. This will enhance performance and connectivity for non-Apple virtual reality systems. ### 🎥 **4. SharePlay for Third-Party Devices** **SharePlay**, which lets users watch movies, listen to music, or share screens in sync during FaceTime calls, will now be extended to third-party devices. ![Apple Forced to Open Key iOS Features to Third-Party Devices — Big Changes Coming in 2025](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-172-png.webp) *Image via Android Authority* ### 📡 **5. AirDrop and AirPlay Access for Other Platforms** The EU ruling will force Apple to: ✅ Allow non-Apple devices to **send and receive data via AirDrop and AirPlay** when connected to an iOS device. ✅ Support **alternative services** to AirDrop and AirPlay, opening up new possibilities for third-party gadgets. ## **Seamless Setup and Connectivity Coming Soon** One of the major pain points for users has been the **inconvenience of setting up third-party devices** with iPhones. The new changes aim to make this process seamless by introducing: ✅ **Faster Setup Without Companion Apps:** Third-party devices will no longer require separate companion apps for initial setup. ✅ **Automatic Wi-Fi Connectivity:** Devices will automatically connect to known Wi-Fi networks via iPhones, eliminating manual setups. ✅ **NFC Credential Sharing:** Contactless payment credentials can be easily transferred via **NFC (Near Field Communication)**, improving the integration between iOS devices and third-party gadgets. ## **When Will These Changes Take Effect?** ![](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-174-png.webp) According to the EU’s mandate: - **Most features must be opened up by the end of 2025.** - Non-compliance could result in hefty fines — up to **10% of Apple’s annual turnover**. - Apple has the option to challenge these decisions, but considering the EU’s stringent enforcement of DMA rules, opposition may be a tough battle for the tech giant. ## **Will Apple Comply or Fight Back?** ![](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/image-176-png.webp) Apple is not taking these changes lightly. In a statement to **The Verge**, Apple claimed that the EU’s requirements are “**bad for our products and for our European users.**” Given Apple’s history of defending its closed ecosystem, it is likely that the company may **appeal the EU’s decision** through judicial review. However, the EU remains firm on its stance, emphasizing that its goal is to create a **more open and competitive technology environment** for consumers. ## **FAQs** ### What features will be available to third-party devices? Third-party gadgets will get access to iOS notifications, SharePlay, audio switching, AirDrop, AirPlay, and other exclusive Apple features. ### When will Apple open these features? Apple has until the **end of 2025** to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). **Read more:**[Rubina Francis – Paris Paralympics 2024: India’s First Paralympic Pistol Shooter to Win Bronze at Paris 2024](https://technosports.co.in/rubina-francis-paris-paralympics-2024-india/)