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A few days ago, Apple published documentation for a new framework designed to simplify the transfer of third-party app data between iOS and Android. Here’s how it’ll work. AppMigrationKit to allow ‘a one-time transfer of app data between Apple and non-Apple platforms’ Apple has been working on a new framework called AppMigrationKit, which will be compatible with devices running iOS 26.1 and later, as well as iPadOS 26.1 and later. Like iOS and iPadOS 26.1, the framework is currently in beta and will allow developers to include their app’s data during the migration process between Apple and non-Apple devices (which, for now, essentially means Android). Interestingly, Apple notes that this framework is not intended for data migration between iOS and iPadOS, but rather exclusively to and from non-Apple devices: “AppMigrationKit only supports migration to and from non-Apple platforms, such as Android. The system doesn’t use the framework for migration between iOS or iPadOS devices. The framework also has no functionality in iOS apps running in visionOS or in macOS on Apple silicon. The framework ignores calls from Mac apps built with Mac Catalyst.” The AppMigrationKit documentation states that developers can define whether their apps will import data, export data, or both. They do that by creating “an app extension that conforms to the AppMigrationExtension protocol and at least one of its subprotocols.” Then, when the user decides to set up a new device, all apps implementing AppMigrationKit will have their data included in the package. Apple notes that once the transfer is complete, the developer can also import cloud-stored data onto the target device. Transfer to Android The AppMigrationKit API will work alongside the new “Transfer to Android” feature, which was first reported on in May. Apple is also working on adding an option under Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone, called Transfer to Android. Once the user selects that option, a splash screen will inform them about what can and cannot be transferred between devices during the one-time migration process. Since the feature is being developed as a two-way road, Android will also have a similar “Transfer to iPhone” feature, as was reported in May, initially as an eSIM transfer tool. Adopting AppMigrationKit If you’re a developer and would like to get your app ready for the upcoming migration tool, be sure to check Apple’s documentation, with details on app extensions, export and import operations, migration stats, and migration code tests. Keep in mind that the framework is currently in beta, and “subject to change,” as Apple also notes: “This documentation contains preliminary information about an API or technology in development. This information is subject to change, and software implemented according to this documentation should be tested with final operating system software.” AppMigrationKit has not yet been confirmed for immediate release alongside iOS 26.1. Still, the fact that the documentation is already up is a clear indication that it should be launched sooner rather than later. Accessory deals on Amazon
