Switching between Android and iPhone has always been possible, but not always smooth. Now, it looks like Apple and Google are collaborating on a major upgrade that should make cross-platform migration faster, more reliable, and far more user-friendly. According to a report from 9To5Google, the two tech giants are working together on new migration systems currently being tested in early software builds.
Collaboration shows up in Android canary build
Evidence of this partnership has now emerged within Android Canary 2512, ZP11.251121.010: this build is said to contain new code created collaboratively between Apple and Google to enhance the whole data transfer experience when users set up a device. Meanwhile, Apple is readying support as part of the next iOS 26 developer beta, meaning both are aligning their respective operating systems for smoother transfers.
While specifics are still not publicly available, the new process is likely to offer more data types, smoother continuity, and, where possible, even better app-to-app migrations.
Still in testing: No final timelines
Android Canary builds and iOS developer betas are for testers only; there's a possibility of there being bugs or stability problems. Google is expected to move these features to the public Android Beta channel before they roll out globally.
As of now, there is no confirmed timeline on when the end users will see the updated switching experience.
Until then, there will still be options: Apple’s Move to iOS app and Google’s Switch to Android app.
Apple's AppMigrationKit: A major step forward
Apple is also working on a new migration framework called AppMigrationKit, which will allow third-party apps to transfer their data across iOS and Android. This will allow developers to create export and import features for a single migration session. The new architecture is said to support a future setting on the iPhone called "Transfer to Android", while Google prepares the matching functionality called "Transfer to iPhone" inside Android.
Cross-platform sharing already improving
This collaboration comes just after Google had enabled cross-platform file sharing between Android Quick Share and Apple's AirDrop. Android users can now share files starting with the Pixel 10 series to Apple devices with no requirement for companion apps. This feature will soon expand to more Android devices.