The European Union announced on Thursday its intention to enforce new regulations on Apple, requiring the tech giant to open up its iPhone and iPad operating systems to competing technologies. This move comes as part of the EU's Digital Markets Act, aimed at preventing Big Tech companies from monopolizing digital markets and promoting fair competition.
The European Commission, the EU's executive branch, has initiated two specification proceedings to outline the obligations Apple must adhere to under the Digital Markets Act. The first proceeding will focus on ensuring that connected devices such as smartwatches and headphones can effectively interoperate with Apple's operating system. The second proceeding will examine how Apple handles interoperability requests from software developers for iOS and iPadOS in a transparent, timely, and fair manner.
During this process, which is expected to last up to six months, the European Commission will communicate its findings to Apple. This marks the first time the commission has utilized this process since the Digital Markets Act came into effect earlier this year. Additionally, the EU is currently investigating Apple's App Store rules for developers.
Margrethe Vestager, the executive vice president responsible for competition policy at the European Commission, stated that this process will offer clarity for developers and Apple. In response, Apple mentioned that it has already established mechanisms for apps in the European Union to request additional interoperability with iOS and iPadOS while safeguarding user security.
Apple emphasized the importance of maintaining the protective measures it has implemented over time, highlighting the potential risks to European consumers if these safeguards are undermined. The company expressed its commitment to collaborating with the commission in a constructive manner moving forward.
