Apple may soon allow iPhone and iPad users in the European Union to replace AirPlay with third-party streaming systems like Google Cast at the system level.
According to Mark Gurman, Apple is working on the feature as part of its response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act requirements. The changes are reportedly being developed for iOS 27.
iOS 27 may expand streaming support beyond AirPlay
In his Power On newsletter, Gurman says Apple is building support for third-party streaming protocols directly into iOS 27, allowing users to choose alternatives like Google Cast as their default streaming option for video, audio, and photos.
That would significantly loosen Apple’s current approach to media streaming across its ecosystem, where AirPlay serves as the primary native streaming solution across Apple devices.
If implemented, the feature could allow smart TVs, speakers, and streaming devices to work more natively with iPhones and iPads without relying entirely on AirPlay.
Google Cast could benefit the most from the change because many hotels, TVs, and streaming products already support the platform widely.
The update could also improve compatibility for users who frequently switch between Apple devices and non-Apple smart home or entertainment products.
The feature may remain limited to the European Union
The report suggests the feature is likely tied specifically to European Union regulations rather than a broader global strategy shift from Apple.
Apple has already introduced several EU-only changes under the Digital Markets Act, including support for third-party app marketplaces and alternative browser engines. Because of that, users outside the EU may not receive native third-party streaming support in iOS 27, at least initially.
The move would be another example of EU regulations pushing Apple to open parts of the iPhone ecosystem that were previously limited to its own technologies.
There is currently no official confirmation from Apple, and more details will likely emerge closer to WWDC 2026 next month.
Would you switch from AirPlay to something like Google Cast if Apple allowed it natively on iPhone? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
