The new version of Apple's operating system, iOS 26, integrates significant advances in wireless connectivity that can change the way users share files and collaborate across nearby devices. Among these new features, one stands out: Wi-Fi Aware, an industry standard that takes direct connections beyond what Apple itself has previously allowed with its popular AirDrop.
While AirDrop was exclusive to the brand's products, the arrival of Wi-Fi Aware implies that the Applications will be able to detect and connect to nearby devices without needing to be on the same Wi-Fi network or relying on the Internet or an access point.This opens the door not only to faster connections, but also to true interoperability with other platforms, including Android.
Wi-Fi Aware: The leap to openness and versatility in the Apple ecosystem
The new development framework available to programmers, thanks to Wi-Fi Aware, incorporates the possibility that Third parties create solutions for file sharing, high-speed video streaming, screen synchronization, and smart device control. directly between Apple devices and potentially also with Android devices. If you want to expand your knowledge of data transfer, you can visit our guide on Sharing data on Xiaomi and Android.
The user will simply open the app on both devices involved, see the list of nearby devices and can start the connection, all in one go. safely and under control. To ensure privacy, Pairing may always require a confirmation code, very much in line with the current AirDrop experience, thus preventing unauthorized sending.
Although these possibilities represent a significant advance, the function will still be subject to the adoption by developersThat is, those responsible for each app will have to decide whether to implement this technology in their tools, opening up a universe of new uses both within and outside the Apple ecosystem.
Regulatory motivations and a step towards interoperability with Android
The momentum of Wi-Fi Aware in iOS 26 is not only due to technical innovation. The implementation of this feature is partly due to regulatory requirements from the European Union, which pushes for more open and compatible technology ecosystems, especially regarding interoperability in file sharing and the use of external hardware. To make remote control of your devices easier, you can also check out our guide on turn your Android into a remote control.
Apple thus complies with the guidelines by providing a standard alternative to AirDrop, although still maintains control over its native functionThe big news is that, although AirDrop itself does not open, the Apps will be able to create their own file sharing systems based on Wi-Fi Aware and compatible with other manufacturers, such as Android phones. that also implement the standard.
The update won't be available on all devices, but will affect Apple devices equipped with newer hardware. For now, iPhone 12 and later will be supported, as well as iPad (from the XNUMXth generation), iPad mini (XNUMXth generation), iPad Air (XNUMXth generation), and the latest versions of iPad Pro.As for macOS, it's currently focused on mobile devices, although its expansion to more devices in the future isn't ruled out.
How the user experience changes with Wi-Fi Aware
The arrival of Wi-Fi Aware It means that, on a daily basis, You won't need to rely on the cloud or third-party servers to share files or use smart accessories.The protocol, which has been present in Android for several versions, will ensure detection, fast pairing, and direct point-to-point communication under high safety standardsFor example, it will be possible to share photos, send high-quality videos, pair accessories, share your screen, or stream multimedia content, all instantly and privately.
For users who expect greater flexibility and convenience when working with devices from different brands, this step represents a significant improvement in everyday connectivity. Developers and users will benefit from a wider variety of options, and competition between apps could lead to even more innovative solutions..
This technology responds to both a demand from the European market as well as the need to open the Apple ecosystem to new forms of collaboration. While it's not a universal AirDrop, it's the clearest approach to truly cross-platform connectivity to date. The future of mobile file transfers and collaboration promises to be more agile, secure, and open than ever.
