EU orders Apple to open iOS to competitors
What's the story
The European Union (EU) has ordered Apple to enhance the compatibility of its iOS operating system with competing technologies.
This is one of the significant early enforcement actions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a comprehensive law designed to prevent big tech companies from monopolizing markets.
The DMA became fully enforceable a year ago, prompting multiple investigations into big tech companies by the EU's executive Commission.
Compliance measures
Legally binding decision for Apple
Back in September, the EU launched two "specification proceedings" to define Apple's obligations under the DMA.
The Commission delivered a legally binding decision specifying that Apple must provide access to nine existing connectivity features in its iOS operating system.
These changes will give app and device manufacturers better access to iPhone features compatible with non-Apple devices, like smartwatches and wireless headphones.
Developer opportunities
Enhanced access to Apple's wireless file transfer technology
The EU's decision also opens the door for third-party developers to use Apple's wireless file transfer technology, allowing them to create apps like the AirDrop feature.
The Commission has also proposed measures to improve transparency and efficiency in the process for software developers to seek access to iPhone features.
This would include better access to technical documentation not yet available to third parties.
Apple's response
Apple expresses concerns over EU's interoperability requirements
In response to the EU's decision, Apple expressed dissatisfaction, saying it could hurt its products and European users.
The company argued that the DMA would force it to make its innovations interoperable with competitors' products, which Apple interprets as giving away new features for free.
Despite these concerns, Apple pledged to continue cooperating with the European Commission "to help them understand our concerns on behalf of our users."
Other tech giants
Google also under scrutiny for DMA compliance
The EU has also criticized Google for not doing enough to comply with the DMA.
While Google has made some changes, it still prioritizes its own services in search results.
The Commission's preliminary findings show that while it's acceptable for Google to charge a fee for downloading an app from Play Store, the company is imposing fees that "go beyond what is justified" on every purchase of digital goods or services.