Apple plans to simplify the transition to Android by the fall of 2025

Apple has announced plans to facilitate customers’ transition to Android devices as a result of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which came into effect today.

Alongside commitments to support alternative app stores, introduce new business terms for EU app developers, and implement mobile browser choice screens, among other measures, Apple has pledged to enhance its data portability offerings, including providing a more user-friendly method to transfer data from an iPhone to another non-Apple device.

While this solution is not yet available, Apple aims to have it ready by fall 2025, according to the company’s compliance plan with the new EU law. The DMA seeks to promote competition in the app ecosystem by mandating Apple to loosen its control over the App Store and iOS. To mitigate the potential financial impact of the DMA on its business, Apple has introduced new fees for developers who opt to switch to the DMA rules, despite facing backlash from developers.

In addition to addressing App Store regulations, the DMA also focuses on data portability. Apple’s Data & Privacy website will be updated to enable users to export their App Store data to authorized third parties, as outlined in the compliance document. Presently, users can request to transfer their iCloud Photos to Google Photos or download various data collected by Apple’s apps, including Notes, Calendar, Contacts, Maps, Wallet Activity, Mail, Safari Bookmarks, and reading lists. Furthermore, users will have the option to schedule daily downloads of their App Store data for thirty days or weekly downloads for 180 days, with the provided data continuously updated to ensure it remains current.