AirDrop, AirPlay and other popular features are not available to non-Apple customers. This could change in the European Union in the future, where proposals are being developed to require Apple make these features available on Android devices. According to TechRadar’s proposed changes to the Digital Markets Act, Apple would be required to make its exclusive features accessible to other smartphone manufacturers and developers. AirDrop, which is built into all Apple products, allows users to wirelessly share files with other devices nearby. It allows you to transfer files directly to someone nearby without using a cable. AirPlay allows Apple users to wirelessly stream audio and video content, photos and other content, from their iPhones and iPads to a variety of devices, including Apple TVs, smart TVs and wireless speakers.
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This proposal focuses on APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), which allow communication between two applications. According to the proposal, EU residents might not need to buy an iPhone 16 in order to access the features above.
In recent years, the EU has actively sought to limit Apple’s control over its smartphone ecosystem through the DMA. One significant requirement is that Apple provides users with access to third-party app stores to download apps onto iPhones and iPads. The DMA also requires Apple to allow users to choose their default apps for web browsing, email, and other functions.
Features like AirDrop and AirPlay are often seen as exclusive advantages for Apple users. However, government officials perceive them as anticompetitive. Both sides have valid arguments: on the one hand, Apple aims to keep users within its ecosystem, while on the other hand, officials are concerned about the excessive power held by a single company.
If Apple is required to make these services available to non-Apple developers and smartphone manufacturers, we can only hope that the same security features are maintained. If they are, it’s a win for consumers, regardless of their smartphone type.
Bryan M. Wolfe has over a decade of experience as a technology writer. He writes about mobile.
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