Apple to Allow Third-Party Casting Protocols in iOS 27 Under EU Digital Markets Act

Apple plans to let users set a third-party streaming protocol, such as Google Cast, as the default for wireless media transmission on iOS 27. The change would enable native integration of non-Apple devices at the system level, a shift from the current AirPlay-only default. Mark Gurman reports the feature is aimed at meeting the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) and may launch only in the European Union.

9to5MacAppleInsideriPhone to enable Google Cast by default with iOS 27, report claims

The DMA requires large platforms to open core functionalities to rivals. Apple has already responded to EU pressure by adopting USB-C, adding a third-party app storefront, and permitting sideloading. The upcoming casting support follows this incremental compliance trajectory.

AppleInsider

• 24 May 2026 – Gurman’s report on third-party casting.

9to5Mac

• 9 June 2026 – Expected WWDC announcement of iOS 27.

iPhone to enable Google Cast by default with iOS 27, report claims

• September 2026 – Anticipated iPhone launch window; iOS 27 may ship then or via a later update.

AppleInsider

Default Google Cast could cut the taps needed to stream to non-Apple speakers and TVs, addressing a friction point for mixed-brand households and expanding market access for hardware makers that rely on Google Cast.

iPhone to enable Google Cast by default with iOS 27, report claims

Apple has said the DMA introduces “inherent security risks” when opening system-level interfaces but is proceeding with the iOS 27 modifications to satisfy regulators.

AppleInsider

Observers note Apple’s reluctance stems from security concerns and a desire to retain control over the user experience; prior DMA-related changes have already removed features such as macOS Live Activities for European users.

AppleInsider

Sources differ on whether the casting option will be global or EU-only, and the exact release timing—initial rollout versus a later update—remains unconfirmed.

AppleInsider

• “From the Power On newsletter: Apple, looking to satisfy the latest requirements of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, is building support into iOS 27 for third-party AirPlay streaming alternatives, I’m told.” — Power On newsletter

9to5Mac

• “Google Cast (formerly Chromecast) is most certainly the most popular third-party protocol that’d take advantage of this.” — Power On newsletter

9to5Mac

• “EU flags in Brussels -- image credit: EU Apple will be adding support for Google Cast and other alternatives to AirPlay as part of iOS 27, in order to appease the EU's Digital Markets Act.” — AppleInsider

AppleInsider

• “Apple has been concerned about being pushed to comply, especially when dealing with the inherent security risks of opening up access.” — AppleInsider

AppleInsider

• “The dislike of DMA and the EU's push to comply has already led to various features not being available to European users.” — AppleInsider

AppleInsider

Apple is expected to detail the casting integration at WWDC 2026, after which developers and hardware makers will prepare for a likely EU-only deployment. Further DMA-driven iOS changes, such as broader third-party app store support, are anticipated.

AppleInsider