Android Beta Code Hints At A New IOS Feature That Makes Switching Platforms Easier

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Summary

An Android 16 QPR1 beta code review hints at upcoming wireless iPhone eSIM transfer.
Google’s SIM Manager includes strings indicating iOS 19 will add a new feature for easily migrating from iPhone to Android.
The process should work similarly to transferring an eSIM between Android devices, but we haven’t yet seen evidence of a “Transfer to iPhone” eSIM feature from Google.

It’s not often that an Android leak outlines an upcoming iPhone feature. After all, the two famed competitors hardly ever collaborate. But that’s exactly what expert Mishaal Rahman learned from a few code strings buried in the Android 16 QPR1 beta. Evidence exists within Google’s SIM Manager app that Apple is prepping an easy way to transfer your eSIM from an iPhone to an Android phone, which implies the opposite could be in the works, too (Source: Android Authority).

A Pixel 9 Pro open to quick settings, sitting upright among puzzle pieces.

One user-friendly feature at a time

Two SIM cards sitting next to an empty SIM card tray.

Rahman — also a member of the Android Faithful podcast — found the code while investigating the beta release that will ultimately become Pixels’ first Android 16 Feature Drop. Already able to transfer eSIMs between Android devices, SIM Manager contains newfound strings indicate that a new option will let iPhone users assign an existing eSIM to an Android smartphone.

The strings imply iOS is slated to get a “Transfer to Android” option in the “Transfer or Reset iPhone” menu. They also mention that wireless transfer requires “your other device” to run iOS 19. The new implementation would dovetail perfectly with Apple’s predicted unveiling of iOS 19 at its Worldwide Developers’ Conference in June. SIM Manager currently prompts users to scan a QR code for streamlined eSIM transfer, and it will probably do the same for moving from iOS.

It isn’t exactly clear what inspired the collaboration, but streamlining the migration process serves both platforms. It could easily have been influenced by carriers, as well, which typically shoulder the burden of irregular eSIM transfers via customer support. There is no solid evidence yet that Google is working on a similar wireless eSIM transfer feature for users moving to an iPhone, but it makes sense if the monoliths have reached a reciprocal agreement.