AppMigrationKit: Cross-Platform Data Transfer in iOS 26.1

Apple introduced AppMigrationKit in iOS 26.1 beta—a framework for one-time cross-platform data migration.

What It Does

AppMigrationKit enables apps to transfer on-device data between iOS and non-Apple platforms like Android.

import AppMigrationKit

// Create app extension conforming to protocol
class MyAppMigration: AppMigrationExtension {
    // Import, export, or both
}

Framework handles on-device data only. Cloud data must be fetched separately after migration completes.

Key Limitations

• Cross-platform only: Works between iOS and Android, not iOS-to-iOS
• No visionOS/macOS support: iOS 26.1+ and iPadOS 26.1+ only
• Mac Catalyst ignored: Framework ignores calls from Catalyst apps
• One-time transfer: Designed for device switching, not sync

Implementation

Apps create an app extension conforming to AppMigrationExtension protocol and at least one subprotocol indicating import, export, or both directions.

// Adopt protocols based on migration direction
extension MyAppMigration {
    // Import from Android
    // Export to Android
    // Or both
}

System initiates migration during device setup. Apps participate through the extension.

Cloud Data Handling

If your app syncs with cloud:

1. Complete on-device migration first
2. Fetch cloud data after migration
3. Handle both data sources separately

AppMigrationKit transfers local data only.

Availability

iOS 26.1 beta and iPadOS 26.1 beta. Framework currently in beta.

Official Documentation

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Note: Once I explore the full documentation and find implementation examples, I’ll write a detailed post with code samples.