Apple will now allow accessory manufacturers to connect their devices to iPhones and iPads in a similar way to AirPods. The API introduced with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 AccessorySetupKit enables developers to integrate a comparably simple setup process into their apps.
If a manufacturer uses the new API in its app, users no longer have to manually confirm the setup of accessories that are connected via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Instead of allowing Bluetooth and/or Wi-Fi connections themselves, this is done entirely via a so-called picker, as is the case with Apple devices.
This is similar to the setup pop-up that Apple itself uses and shows an image of the device to be connected as well as the name chosen by the developers. The picker automatically selects the permissions necessary for use in the background when users decide to connect the device.
The device manufacturer’s app must be open during setup
If the setup process requires the entry of a password, the picker will ask for it during the process. The connection process via the new API is much more convenient than before. Unlike with Apple products, however, users must download and open the manufacturer’s appropriate app before setting up. This is not necessary with Apple accessories such as the Airpods, as the picker function for Apple devices is built into the operating system itself.
Devices set up using the new API can be viewed in a new settings menu in the privacy settings. If the accessory also uses Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, it will also appear in these menus. Users can also remove the set up devices there.