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

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:

📩 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 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.

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.

📡 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?

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?

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.