Key Points:
• The European Commission is requesting that Apple ensure the "effective interoperability" of iOS with other platforms.
• The EU wants Apple to change various aspects of iOS to allow third-party developers to access technologies currently exclusive to Apple.
• The deadline for the consultation in the case is set for January 9, 2025, and if Apple fails to comply, the EU may launch a formal probe and impose fines of up to 10% of the company’s global annual sales.
In a surprising move, the European Commission has instructed Apple to make significant changes to the way iOS works in the EU. This is a direct result of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) antitrust law, which aims to prevent big tech companies from engaging in anti-competitive practices. However, it appears that the EU wants even more from Apple, as it now demands that the company ensure the "effective interoperability" of iOS with other platforms.
As reported by Bloomberg, the European Commission has published a document outlining its requirements for Apple, which includes making it easier for users to pair and control accessories from other brands on iOS, as well as allowing third-party apps to run entirely in the background – currently a feature exclusive to Apple apps. The document also covers features like AirPlay and AirDrop, which are currently limited to Apple devices.
Apple has responded to the demand by publishing an online document criticizing the European Commission and the DMA legislation, claiming that the situation is "becoming personal." The company highlights its work on privacy and security, and argues that the DMA requirements make its ecosystem less secure. Apple fears that if it opens up all technologies to anyone, it will put users’ data at risk.
Interestingly, Apple also points out that Meta, the company behind Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has made the most requests to access "Apple’s sensitive technologies" under the DMA. This has raised concerns that if Apple were to grant these requests, Meta could access a user’s device, reading their messages and emails, tracking their phone calls, and more.
The deadline for the consultation in the case is set for January 9, 2025, and if Apple fails to comply, the EU may launch a formal probe and impose fines of up to 10% of the company’s global annual sales.
This development is not the only concern for Apple, as the Brazilian regulator has also ruled that the company should open up its ecosystem to third-party developers. While Apple has appealed the decision, it could still be forced to enable sideloading in Brazil as well.
While this news may seem daunting for Apple, it may also be an opportunity for the company to revamp its ecosystem and provide a more open and competitive platform for developers. As we wait to see how this story unfolds, one thing is certain – the EU’s demand for "effective interoperability" will likely have significant implications for the future of iOS and the tech industry as a whole. For now, users can rest assured that Apple will continue to prioritize their privacy and security, even if it means making some concessions.
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