The European Union (EU) has announced plans to require Apple to open up its iPhone and iPad operating systems to competing technologies. The EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, has initiated two ”specification proceedings” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to outline what Apple must do. One proceeding will focus on ensuring that connected devices like smartwatches and virtual reality headsets can effectively work with Apple’s operating system. The other will examine how Apple handles interoperability requests from software developers for iOS and iPadOS in a fair and transparent manner.
During this process, which could take up to six months, the commission will share its findings with Apple. Failure to comply with the DMA could result in fines of up to 10 percent of Apple’s annual global turnover, increasing to 20 percent for repeated infringements. The DMA aims to prevent tech giants from dominating digital markets by requiring them to make their systems interoperable with competitors’ platforms.
Accordingly, under the DMA rules, Apple must provide free and effective interoperability for third-party developers and businesses using its operating systems. These proceedings formalize the EU’s regulatory dialogue with Apple regarding compliance with DMA regulations.
Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for competition policy, emphasized that effective interoperability is crucial for fair and open digital markets. She stated that these proceedings would provide clarity for developers while ensuring that proposed measures meet business needs.
In response, an Apple spokesperson expressed willingness to work with the European Commission but raised concerns about potential risks associated with opening up its software beyond their control. They highlighted over 250,000 application programming interfaces (APIs) developed by Apple as a means of allowing secure access while protecting user privacy.
This announcement follows a separate decision earlier this month when the European Court of Justice ordered Apple to pay over $14 billion in back taxes due in Ireland. In July, the European Commission accused Apple of violating DMA policies by preventing app makers from directing users outside of its App Store.
Apple has yet not responded publicly regarding these latest developments.
