EU guarantees easier data transfers from iPhone to Android

Brussels – Greater interoperability and data portability: this is the service that Apple and Android will have to guarantee, given that, with the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the two big tech companies are required to make the switch from one device to another less of a hassle for European users. Consequently, Apple and Google are working on new data interoperability and portability features, aiming to facilitate information exchange, reduce vendor lock-in, and ensure users have control over their data.

The framework within which the two tech giants are operating is, therefore, the
Digital Markets Act (DMA), which imposes obligations on large online platforms designated by the European Commission. Coming into force in 2022, the regulation aims to make the digital sector fairer and more competitive, as well as to improve the experience of European users.

With regard to data portability solutions, for example, Apple and Google are refining systems to easily transfer data from an iPhone to an Android when setting up a new device. Apple outlined this project in its DMA compliance report and has released the documentation to its developers. Specifically, “Apple and Google are working on a solution for data transfer between different operating systems that will allow users to easily move all their data when switching from an iPhone to an Android smartphone (‘device transfer’).” For the Commission, “this will represent a major step forward for users worldwide” given that, “currently, those wishing to switch device brands face significant difficulties due to the limitations of existing data transfer solutions, particularly regarding the completeness of data.” Furthermore, this solution will follow the launch by Apple and Google of the eSIM transfer solution in 2025 which, according to Brussels, “has significantly simplified the transfer of eSIMs and phone numbers between iPhones and Android phones (and vice versa).” In particular, the eSIM transfer solution is already supported by several European and non-European operators, with others set to follow.

Data portability also applies to web browsers: over the last two years, Apple has introduced two features to allow users to import their data from Safari into another browser installed on an iPad or iPhone. These solutions have also been adopted by some “third-party” browsers, such as Chrome and Vivaldi, which now offer users the option to import data from Safari.

As for interoperability, however, Apple, Google, and Microsoft have created portals to allow developers to request access to features or data from other systems. This will ensure that their application, service or device can communicate, exchange data, and interact seamlessly with them. On this subject, the Commission has published guidelines for Apple and Google, which also focus on artificial intelligence services.