Apple and Google now offer new tools that make it easier for you to switch between iPhone and Android. Both companies say the updated system moves your data faster and with fewer steps. You no longer need to rely on slow workarounds or third-party apps to complete the transfer.
The two companies worked together on this project to improve how users move photos, messages, accounts, and app data. The goal is to reduce friction when you set up a new phone. You get a more direct and predictable process that works across both platforms.
A spokesperson for the European Commission addressed this collaboration in a new statement to 9to5mac. The Commission says this latest move reflects the progress expected from the Digital Markets Act.
This OS portability solution will allow users to easily transfer data from iPhone to Android and vice versa when they set up a new device. It will support many types of data, including: contacts, calendar events, messages, photos, documents, Wi-Fi networks, passwords, and even data from third-party apps. It will also work wirelessly. These are major upgrades compared to the currently limited data transfer solutions.
A closer look at the DMA connection
In a new explanation, the Commission adds that this work builds on the eSIM transfer feature introduced last October. That earlier update simplified how users move eSIMs between iPhone and Android. It replaced a long and confusing process with a quick wireless option.
Both solutions are the direct result of the DMA, which requires designated services to ensure effective data portability. Apple overviewed their work on this project in Apple’s DMA compliance reports from March 2024 and March 2025.
Apple and Google completed this project after 2 years of engineering and regulatory coordination. The tools will be available worldwide. You won’t need to live in the European Union to use them.
The update begins rolling out this week for Pixel devices through a new Android Canary build. The same tools arrive later in an upcoming iOS 26 developer beta. Apple has not yet shared full details about timing.
Developers also gain something here. The Commission says third-party apps gain a better chance of retaining users when they move between platforms.
For now, we still need to test the new transfer tools ourselves. The real results will be clear once the next iOS 26 beta arrives.
