Apple Readies New Framework to Let iPhone Users Migrate App Data to Android

Apple is preparing to launch a major new development for smartphone users: a framework called AppMigrationKit that allows on-device app data to be exported from iPhones and imported into Android devices. The framework is currently in beta for iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1 and marks the first time Apple is making it significantly easier to migrate app-specific data across platforms.

What AppMigrationKit Does

AppMigrationKit gives developers the ability to support one-time transfers of local app data—such as settings, offline resources, or saved game files—from an iPhone (or iPad) to a non-Apple device (for now, essentially Android). According to Apple’s developer documentation, the framework does not support migrations between iOS to iPadOS devices, nor does it apply to visionOS or macOS apps built with Mac Catalyst.

Developers integrate the framework by creating an app extension that implements the AppMigrationExtension protocol and, depending on their data needs, one of its sub-protocols:

• ResourcesExporting / ResourcesExportingWithOptions — for exporting data

• ResourcesImporting — for importing data.

Apps that adopt this framework reveal whether they support export, import, or both, enabling users to carry more of their app experience when switching platforms.

Why This Matters

For many users, switching from iOS to Android or vice versa remains painful — losing app-specific data, progress, or configurations. The new framework addresses that gap. Tech publications describe it as “less of a headache” when changing platforms.

The move also aligns with regulatory trends pushing for greater interoperability and less vendor lock-in. It signals Apple’s acknowledgment that users may change devices, and data migration should be smoother.

What to Expect & Limitations

• The framework is currently in beta, and Apple has not yet confirmed a full launch timeline. Developers should expect changes.

• Since adoption depends on developers integrating the framework, support will vary across apps and regions initially.

• It supports a one-time transfer during device setup; it is not meant for continuous syncing or ongoing cross-platform data sharing.

• It does not cover migrations within Apple’s ecosystem (i.e., iPhone to iPad or Mac).

• Cloud-stored data still needs to be retrieved after migration by the target platform.

What Users Should Know

When this feature becomes fully available, users switching from iPhone to Android may have an easier path to preserve app data like game saves, productivity app settings or offline app content—provided the app supports it. It will likely appear under Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone in iOS.

Until then, users should check whether their favorite apps have added support for AppMigrationKit, back up cloud data separately, and keep expectations realistic: full ecosystem parity will take time.