Apple is said to be working on a new feature in its upcoming iOS 19 update that will make it easier for users to switch from iPhone to Android, starting with wireless eSIM transfers. As per a report by Android Authority, this feature “Transfer to Android” will be added to the Settings app, allowing users to wirelessly move their eSIM to a non-Apple device.
Current Transfer Limitations
Currently, iPhones only offer the “Transfer or Reset iPhone” option, which supports transfers only between Apple devices. However, iOS 19 will reportedly introduce a new “Other Options” button under Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone, enabling users to manually initiate an eSIM transfer to Android smartphones.
How It Works
The process would involve scanning a QR code displayed on the Android device which is similar to the current method used between Android phones. The iPhone is expected to generate a “session ID” and “passcode”, which users will enter on their Android device to complete the wireless transfer. Notably, this feature will require the iPhone to be running iOS 19.
A Step Towards Simpler Switching
Until now, transferring an eSIM from iPhone to Android typically meant contacting the carrier and manually re-provisioning the account with a process that’s often tedious and time-consuming. With iOS 19, Apple aims to streamline this with a built-in, user-friendly solution.
In Compliance with the Digital Markets Act
Apple has already supported transitions from Android to iPhone via its Move to iOS app, most recently updated with iOS 18. However, moving in the opposite direction from iPhone to Android has remained clunky and far from seamless. This upcoming feature may be the first real step in simplifying the iPhone-to-Android switch.
These changes are likely part of Apple’s compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires tech giants to open up their ecosystems. Apple has acknowledged that it is “developing a solution that helps mobile operating system providers develop more user-friendly solutions to transfer data from an iPhone to a non-Apple phone.”
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In line with the DMA, Apple has admitted it is “working on a solution that assists mobile operating system vendors to create more user-friendly solutions for transferring data from an iPhone to a non-Apple device.” The wireless eSIM transfer feature in iOS 19 appears to be a major step in that direction.
Conclusion
With iOS 19, Apple is not just enhancing its software capabilities but also taking a significant step toward interoperability. By introducing wireless eSIM transfers to Android, the company is addressing long-standing user pain points and aligning itself with regulatory requirements. This feature could mark the beginning of a more open and user-friendly Apple ecosystem.
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