# **Apple Set to Roll Out Additional iOS and iPadOS Features in Response to EU’s Digital Markets Act**
The **Digital Markets Act (DMA)** imposed by the European Union is transforming the operating methods of significant tech companies in the region. Apple, a major entity impacted by these regulations, has already made a number of adjustments to its **iPhone** and **iPad** devices. Nevertheless, the European Commission has now required that Apple implement further features to improve interoperability with third-party devices. These modifications are anticipated to be released during the upcoming **iOS 19** and **iPadOS 19** update cycle, which is likely to be unveiled at **WWDC 2025**.
## **Upcoming Features for iOS 19 and iPadOS 19**
To adhere to the DMA, Apple will unveil several new features geared towards enhancing compatibility with third-party devices. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
### **1. Notifications for Third-Party Smartwatches (By June 2026)**
Apple will enable **third-party smartwatches** to show and interact with iOS notifications. This development will allow users of **Wear OS** or other non-Apple smartwatches to receive and manage notifications straight from their wrist, mirroring the functionality of the **Apple Watch**.
### **2. Enhanced Background Capabilities (By End of 2025 & 2026)**
At present, Apple limits background operations for third-party apps to maintain battery efficiency and system functionality. However, the forthcoming regulations will permit apps to perform specific tasks in the background, such as:
– **Retrieving live weather information**
– **Synchronizing data with smartwatches and various connected devices**
Some of these functionalities will be accessible by the end of **2025**, with additional features becoming available by **2026**.
### **3. Automatic Audio Switching for Non-Apple Headphones (By June 2026)**
Currently, Apple’s **AirPods** facilitate effortless audio switching across **iPhone, iPad, and Mac**. In alignment with the new regulations, Apple will broaden this feature to encompass **third-party Bluetooth headphones**, enabling seamless transitions between Apple devices.
### **4. High-Bandwidth Peer-to-Peer Wi-Fi Connections**
With the introduction of **Wi-Fi Aware 4.0** in **iOS 19**, Apple will enable high-bandwidth peer-to-peer connections between iPhones and other physical devices. This enhancement will allow users to:
– **Quickly share large files**
– **Stream content from an iPhone to VR headsets or other gadgets**
– **Improve wireless communication with both Apple and third-party devices**
Furthermore, Apple is required to support **Wi-Fi Aware 5.0** within **nine months** of its formal launch.
### **5. AirDrop-Like Functionality for Third-Party Applications (By June 2026)**
A notable update is that Apple will permit **third-party developers** to design **AirDrop-like file-sharing functionalities**. This means users will have various options to **wirelessly exchange files** between Apple and non-Apple devices, thereby enhancing cross-platform interoperability.
## **Implications for Apple Users**
These alterations signify a major transition in Apple’s historically **closed ecosystem**, rendering iPhones and iPads more **compatible with third-party devices**. The benefits for users include:
– **Expanded choices in smartwatches and headphones**
– **Enhanced background app performance**
– **Improved wireless file-sharing capabilities**
– **Stronger connectivity with non-Apple gadgets**
## **Concluding Thoughts**
Apple’s adherence to the **Digital Markets Act** is revolutionizing the iOS experience, making it notably more **open and user-centric**. Although the rollout of some features may take time, they symbolize a **substantial benefit for consumers** who seek increased flexibility with their Apple devices.
With **iOS 19 and iPadOS 19** projected to launch at **WWDC 2025**, Apple users in Europe (and potentially worldwide) can anticipate a more **interoperable and connected** Apple ecosystem. 🚀
