The EU is urging Apple to make iOS more accessible for better compatibility with accessories
The Digital Markets Act set the groundwork for gatekeeper platforms like iOS and iPadOS to work smoothly with other hardware, but the specific guidelines have been kept pretty loose.
Today is the first time we use specification proceedings under the DMA to guide Apple towards effective compliance with its interoperability obligations through constructive dialogue. We are focused on ensuring fair and open digital markets. Effective interoperability, for example with smartphones and their operating systems, plays an important role in this. This process will provide clarity for developers, third parties and Apple. We will continue our dialogue with Apple and consult third parties to ensure that the proposed measures work in practice and meet the needs of businesses.
– Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy, September 2024
Vestager has been at the forefront of the EU’s mission to rein in Big Tech companies, especially Apple, for the last ten years. However, she’ll be stepping down from her position before these proceedings wrap up.
Apple is already under the EU’s microscope for alleged violations of the DMA, particularly concerning the App Store. On top of that, the company recently got hit with a $2 billion fine from the EU for anti-steering practices in the music streaming world. So, what’s next? Well, if Apple doesn’t play ball, more fines are on the horizon.
After all, if tech companies don’t want to stick to local laws and tweak their operations I think they should not expect anything different. This saga is just getting started, so keep your eyes peeled for updates.