Apple is reportedly preparing to open up iOS to third-party streaming protocols like Google Cast, marking a significant shift from its current AirPlay-only approach. The move comes as the company seeks to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act requirements.
Currently, iPhone and iPad users can only stream content natively through Apple’s AirPlay protocol. While some apps support Google Cast (Chromecast), developers must build this functionality manually into each application. This leaves many third-party streaming solutions working inconsistently across the iOS ecosystem.
According to a Bloomberg report, iOS 27 will include support for “third-party AirPlay streaming alternatives,” with Google Cast specifically mentioned as an option. More importantly, users would be able to set these alternatives as their default streaming solution, replacing AirPlay entirely if they choose.
This change addresses a real pain point for many households. Millions of smart TVs and speakers support Google Cast, making it a popular choice for streaming content. Android users have long enjoyed this flexibility, while iPhone users remained locked into Apple’s ecosystem for wireless streaming.
The timing isn’t coincidental. Apple faces increasing pressure from EU regulators to open its platforms to third-party services. The Digital Markets Act has already forced changes to the App Store and default browser settings in Europe. Adding streaming protocol options follows this same pattern of regulatory compliance.
However, there’s a catch. Like many EU-mandated changes, this feature will likely remain limited to European users initially. Apple has consistently avoided rolling out these regulatory-driven features globally, preferring to make minimal changes that satisfy legal requirements without affecting its broader business model.
For mixed-device households, this could be a game-changer. Families using both iPhones and Android phones currently face frustrating limitations when trying to stream content to the same devices. Android phones can’t use AirPlay, while iPhones have limited Google Cast support. Universal streaming protocol support would eliminate these compatibility headaches.
The broader implications extend beyond convenience. Apple’s willingness to support competing protocols suggests the company recognizes the growing regulatory pressure around platform openness. As governments worldwide scrutinize Big Tech’s ecosystem control, Apple may need to make similar concessions in other markets.
iOS 27 is expected to arrive in 2026, giving Apple time to refine the implementation and potentially expand availability beyond the EU. Whether this feature reaches global users will depend largely on regulatory developments and competitive pressure in other major markets.