Apple is reportedly developing native support for Google Cast (previously known as Chromecast) and other third-party streaming protocols in iOS 27, potentially making it far easier for iPhone users to cast video, photos, and audio to a wide range of smart TVs and speakers.
Background and Current Limitations
Currently, iOS natively supports only Apple’s proprietary AirPlay for wireless casting. While many individual apps (such as YouTube, Netflix, or Spotify) include built-in Google Cast integration via Google’s iOS Sender SDK, there is no system-wide support. This means users often rely on third-party apps for screen mirroring or full compatibility with Chromecast-enabled devices, which are built into the vast majority of modern smart TVs from brands like Sony, TCL, Vizio, and others, as well as hotel TVs and speakers.
Details from the Report
According to Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman, Apple is building support for “third-party AirPlay streaming alternatives” into iOS 27. Users could potentially set Google Cast — or similar protocols like Matter Casting — as the default casting method at the system level, similar to how AirPlay works today.
This change would allow seamless casting from the iPhone’s share sheet, Control Center, or media playback interfaces to Google Cast-compatible devices without app-specific workarounds.
The primary driver appears to be the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to promote interoperability and reduce gatekeeping by big tech platforms. Apple has previously made DMA-related changes (e.g., third-party app stores) available only in the EU, raising the possibility that Google Cast support could initially be EU-only. However, some analysts suggest Apple might extend it globally to avoid maintaining separate codebases.
Potential Benefits and Scope
• Broader Compatibility: iPhone users could easily cast to nearly any smart TV without needing an Apple TV or third-party mirroring apps.
• Mixed Ecosystems: Households with both iOS and Android devices would benefit significantly.
• Additional Protocols: The report mentions other alternatives beyond Google Cast, such as Matter Casting, which supports cross-brand compatibility and continued playback when switching apps.
Confirmation is expected at Apple’s WWDC keynote on June 8, 2026, though details on rollout timing, exact features, and geographic availability remain unclear.
MacDailyNews Take: This development represents a notable shift for Apple, which has long prioritized its closed ecosystem but is increasingly opening up under regulatory pressure. If implemented widely, it could improve the day-to-day experience for millions of iPhone owners who frequently encounter Google Cast devices.
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