European Commission demands Apple to open up iOS allow better third-party compatibility

The European Commission has intensified its efforts to ensure that Apple complies with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by demanding that the company open up its iOS and iPadOS platforms to greater third-party access.

This move follows an investigation that found Apple in breach of the DMA, leading to new legal requirements aimed at enhancing interoperability and fair competition within the digital market.

New legal requirements for iOS interoperability
The European Commission has formally initiated two specification proceedings that will dictate how and when Apple must allow third-party access to its iPhone hardware and software features.

The first of these proceedings focuses on the connectivity features and functionalities of iOS, specifically those used by connected devices such as smartwatches and headphones. The goal is to ensure that any manufacturer can develop devices that pair seamlessly with iPhones, without restrictions imposed by Apple.

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The second proceeding sets out the timeline and procedures Apple must follow to comply with these new requirements. Apple will be required to make the process of requesting access to iOS features transparent, timely, and fair. The European Commission aims to provide clarity for developers, third parties, and Apple itself, ensuring that the rules facilitate effective interoperability and do not hinder competition.

Europe’s decade-long struggle with big tech
This latest action by the European Union is part of a broader, ongoing effort to regulate Big Tech companies and ensure a level playing field in the digital market. Margrethe Vestager, the EU’s Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy, has been a prominent figure in these efforts.

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She emphasised that this move is the first time specification proceedings under the DMA have been used to guide Apple toward compliance, highlighting the importance of fair and open digital markets.

Vestager’s tenure has seen several high-profile clashes with Apple, including disputes over the company’s tax arrangements in Ireland and its compliance with EU regulations. Apple has often pushed back against the EU’s demands, with CEO Tim Cook previously criticising the EU’s actions as being politically motivated.

Despite this, Apple has begun to comply with certain aspects of the DMA, such as opening up access to the iPhone’s NFC feature to allow competitors to offer alternatives to Apple Wallet.

Ongoing dialogue and future compliance
While Apple has not yet publicly responded to the latest proceedings, the company has previously stated that it is committed to working with the EU to comply with the DMA. The European Commission has set a six-month deadline to conclude these proceedings, which means Apple will need to act swiftly to meet the new requirements.

The Commission has also indicated that it will continue to consult with third parties to ensure that the measures put in place are effective and meet the needs of businesses.

As Vestager prepares to leave her role, this development marks a significant moment in the EU’s ongoing efforts to regulate Big Tech and promote competition. The push to open up iOS to third-party access is seen as a crucial step in this decade-long journey, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to creating a fairer digital marketplace.

This latest move by the European Commission highlights the ongoing tension between regulatory bodies and major tech companies, with the outcome likely to have significant implications for the future of digital markets in Europe and beyond.