Peer-to-peer WLAN by order of the EU: Apple integrates Wi-Fi Aware
With iOS 26, apps can establish direct Wi-Fi connections – also to Android and accessories. This is the preliminary stage for real AirDrop alternatives.
(Image: Sebastian Trepesch)
iPhones and Android devices will soon speak a common language for direct Wi-Fi connections. With iOS and iPadOS 26, Apple supports the Wi-Fi Aware standard, which has long been part of Android. This will enable cross-platform peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connections for the first time. Developers could use it to "turbocharge device connectivity", Apple announced in a session at WWDC 2025.
Direct Wi-Fi connections for fast data exchange
The protocol can be used to establish a direct Wi-Fi connection between two devices without them having to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. It can also interrupt their active connection to a Wi-Fi router or require a different type of Internet connection. Wi-Fi Aware enables data transmissions "with high bandwidth and low latency", writes Apple – and connections to several compatible devices are also possible simultaneously. This is also authenticated and encrypted at Wi-Fi level. In addition to data exchange between two smartphones, for example, communication with accessories such as drones or smartwatches is also planned.
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The manufacturer did not mention the reason for integrating the standard: The EU Commission requires the company to do so in its interoperability specifications, specifically the support of Wi-Fi Aware 4.0 in iOS 26. Apple must integrate Wi-Fi Aware 5.0 into a future iOS version no later than 9 months after the adoption of the specification. Apple must implement these specifications, even if the company wants to continue to fight an appeal against allowing the iPhone to work better with "third-party" accessories.
Until now, Apple has reserved such practical WLAN direct connections for its own devices: AirDrop ensures convenient data exchange here, but only between Apple hardware. Windows users with iPhones are left out in the cold, as are Mac users with an Android smartphone.
Real AirDrop alternatives possible in the future
Until now, Apple has relied on the proprietary AWDL (Apple Wireless Direct Link), but the cross-platform Wi-Fi Aware should practically replace this in the longer term. The EU Commission has also stipulated that Apple must enable proper alternatives to AirDrop. These must therefore be able to offer the convenience functions and system integration familiar from AirDrop. This includes, for example, conveniently sending the file to the desired recipient via the system-wide sharing menu – and leaving the app during data transfer. However, the EU is allowing Apple more time to do this, namely until the end of 2026. Apple does not have to open its in-house protocols for AirDrop and AirPlay.
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