Apple may be preparing one of its biggest casting-related changes yet in iOS 27, as Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says the company is working on a system-level option that would let users replace AirPlay with third-party casting protocols.
The reported move is tied to compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, so it would most likely launch only in EU markets rather than worldwide. If that happens, Apple would no longer need to keep AirPlay as the default native casting method on supported devices in that region.
Gurman says outside services such as Google Cast could gain native-level access inside iOS. In practical terms, that would let users send video, photos, and audio from Apple devices to televisions or speakers through alternative protocols without having to rely on AirPlay as the built-in default.
If Apple follows through, the change could also make it easier for smart speaker makers and casting hardware brands to connect with iPhone and iPad devices at the system level. They wouldn’t need to build around AirPlay compatibility alone, and users could get a more flexible wireless media experience inside iOS 27.
