Peer-to-peer-WLAN on the order of the EU: Apple integrates Wi-Fi Aware

Iphones and Android devices soon speak a common language for WLAN direct connections. With iOS and iPados 26, Apple supports the standard Wi-Fi Aware, which has been part of Android for a long time. This enables cross-platform peer-to-peer WLAN connections for the first time. Developers could “load the device connectivity turbocharging,” said Apple in a session at WWDC 2025.

WLAN direct connections for quick data exchange

A WLAN direct connection between two devices can be established via the protocol without having to hang out in the same WLAN, to interrupt its active connection to a WLAN router or require a different internet connection. Wi-Fi Aware enables data transmissions “with high bandwidth and low latency”, Writes Apple – Connections to several compatible devices are also possible simultaneously. This also authenticated and encrypted at the WLAN level. In addition to the data exchange between two smartphones, communication with accessories such as drones or smartwatches is also planned.

The manufacturer gave the reason for the integration of the standard: The EU Commission prescribes this in its interoperability requirements-specifically, the support of Wi-Fi Aware 4.0 in iOS 26. Wi-Fi Aware 5.0 must integrate Apple into a future iOS version at least 9 months after the specification has been passed. Apple has to implement these requirements, even if the group wants to fight against it, to better have the iPhone interacted with “foreign” accessories.

So far, Apple has reserved such practical WLAN direct connections to its own devices: Airdrop ensures comfortable data exchange here, but only between Apple hardware. Windows users with iPhones look into the tube as well as Mac users with an Android smartphone.

Correct airdrop alternatives possible in the future

To this end, Apple has so far relies on the Proprietary AWDL (Apple Wireless Direct Link), the cross-platform Wi-Fi Aware is likely to replace this in a long time. The EU Commission has also prescribed Apple to enable real alternatives to airdrop. So these must be able to offer the comfort functions and system integration known from Airdrop. This includes, for example, conveniently sending the file to the desired receiver via the Sharing menu system-wide-and leaving the app during the data transmission. However, the EU Apple leaves time for longer, namely by the end of 2026. Apple does not have to open its in -house protocols for Airdrop and AirPlay.