EU requires Apple to ensure iOS is “effectively compatible” with other platforms
By ForGeeks Apple is facing yet another challenge from the European Union. After the enacted Digital Markets Act (DMA) forced the company to make significant changes to iOS, the European Commission is now demanding more. The new EU document requires Apple to ensure iOS is fully compatible with third-party devices and apps.
The new EU document requires Apple to make iOS fully compatible with third-party devices and apps.
New requirements for Apple: what does the EU want?”
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According to a report Bloomberg, the European Commission has issued a recommendation document as part of its antitrust investigation against Apple. It orders the company to make changes that would allow third-party developers to access technologies exclusive to Apple. Among the main requirements:
- Easy interaction with accessories. The EU is pushing to make it easy for users to connect and customize smart watches, headphones and other devices from third-party brands.
- Allow third-party apps to run in the background. Right now, this feature is only available for Apple apps.
- Opening up AirPlay and AirDrop features for use with third-party devices.
The deadline for consultation on this issue is set for January 9, 2025. If Apple fails to comply, it could face a formal investigation and fines of up to 10% of its worldwide annual turnover.
Apple faces a formal investigation and fines of up to 10% of its worldwide annual turnover.
Apple’s response: security issues
Apple has published an official response criticizing the EU’s requirements. The company argues that complying with all DMA conditions undermines user security and privacy. In its document, Apple notes that opening up iOS technology to all vendors could lead to risks of data breaches.
Apple’s official response criticizes the EU’s DMA requirements.
Apple emphasizes that many of the requests come from Meta* (Facebook*, Instagram*, WhatsApp), which, under the guise of improving compatibility with devices like Ray-Ban smart glasses and Meta* Quest headsets, wants access to user data. Apple warns that granting such rights would allow Meta*:
- Read all messages and emails on the device.
- Track calls and app usage history.
- Scan photos, files and events in your calendar.
- Store user passwords.
Apple emphasizes that the company itself refuses access to this data for the sake of user privacy.
Apple emphasizes that the company itself refuses access to this data for the sake of user privacy.
Context: antitrust pressure and sanctions threats
If Apple fails to comply with the DMA, the EU could launch a formal investigation. This could result in significant fines, as well as forcing the company to further expose its ecosystem.
An investigation could result in significant fines, as well as forcing the company to further expose its ecosystem.
The Digital Markets Act is aimed at tackling anti-competitive practices by large tech companies. Apple, as one of the biggest players in the market, is under scrutiny from regulators, particularly over the operation of its closed ecosystem.
The Digital Markets Act is aimed at combating anti-competitive practices by large tech companies.
What’s next?
The EU continues to push for transparency and a level playing field for all digital marketers. Apple, for its part, is defending its right to keep users safe, a key element of its marketing strategy.
The EU continues to push for transparency and a level playing field for all digital marketers.
The future of this conflict will show whether Apple can find a balance between meeting regulatory requirements and preserving its unique ecosystem. However, the risks to the company remain significant, including potential financial penalties and loss of reputation in the European market.
And the risks to the company remain significant.
* Owned by Meta, it is recognized as an extremist organization in Russia and its activities are banned.
