Apple works on iPhone-to-Windows clipboard syncing under EU pressure

Apple is developing a universal copy-and-paste system that would let text move directly from an iPhone to a Windows-based PC. The work follows requirements under the EU Digital Markets Act and Microsoft’s formal interoperability request, aimed at making clipboard transfers possible beyond Apple’s own devices.

Current iOS rules allow third-party apps to read clipboard contents only while they are open and active, with each copy or paste action needing manual user approval. Microsoft has built a workaround, while EU pressure has pushed Apple toward adopting a standard that can operate more smoothly in the background.

Apple reportedly reviewed the EU request in March 2026, submitted project plans by late June, and has moved the feature into development. The implementation will use AccessorySetupKit: once a Windows PC is approved, clipboard items can transfer automatically without repeated prompts. Apple already offers similar syncing through Universal Clipboard between iPhones and Mac computers.