Apple may bring AirDrop and AirPlay support to Android phones to comply with EU's new DMA draft

This is the third such instance of EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) draft proposal that will further diminish the exclusivity of Apple devices.

Cupertino-based technology major Apple is expected to expand the availability of two Apple-exclusive features to third-party devices next year.

A few days ago, the European Union rolled out a new draft policy of the Digital Markets Act 2022 (DMA) -- "DMA.100203 – Article 6(7)" – that requires Apple to bring AirDrop and AirPlay support between iPhones/iPads and Android devices.

The AirDrop is one of the core features of the Apple device ecosystem that allows users to transfer big files such as 4K/8K videos between iPhones, iPads and Mac devices instantly and wirelessly.

On the other hand, AirPlay allows users to mirror the Apple device (iPhone/iPad) only on compatible TVs and display monitors. It is particularly useful for presentations and also for streaming movies/TV series.

However, these two features do not support third-party branded devices. But, with the new DMA draft of the EU, Apple is expected to bring AirDrop and AirPlay support to phones and tablets running on different Operating Systems.

This is the third such instance of the EU's DMA draft proposal that will further diminish the exclusivity of Apple devices.

In 2022, the European Union, for the first time, came up with a DMA to end monopolism by large corporate companies and also ensure consumer electronics makers allow inter-operability between devices running different software platforms.

In 2023, Apple was forced to introduce a Type-C port to all its devices. Previously, iPhones and iPads used to light ports, and for accessories, the customers had to buy from Apple and authorised retailers only. Now, Apple device owners can buy any standard type-C port charger.

And, in the same year, the Cupertino-company was asked to allow customers to install third-party apps on iPhones and iPads.

Apple, earlier this year, was compelled to agree with the EU's order to incorporate a provision for iPhone owners to download apps directly from official websites owned by app developers and other online platforms.

It has to be noted that the Apple App Store is by far the most secure online store to install apps.

There is a strong reason for Apple to restrict people from downloading apps directly from websites and other third-party app stores, as there is a high risk of malware-laced apps getting into phones. Thanks to the robust security screening process, there is almost no chance of malware-laced apps entering the iOS ecosystem, unless the iPhone is jailbroken (running custom iOS).

Now, it remains to be seen if Apple will comply with the EU's new DMA draft or take up any legal route to stall the new proposal.

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