The European Commission has intensified its push for Apple to make the iPhone operating system more accessible to competitors, sparking fresh tensions between EU regulators and the tech giant.
In a directive issued Wednesday, the commission ordered Apple to modify iOS to improve compatibility with competing devices like smartwatches, earbuds, and headsets. The regulators demand that external developers receive better access to iPhone features and get dedicated support channels for their requests.
The clash highlights Apple's resistance to opening its closed ecosystem, which the company maintains provides better user experience and privacy protection. However, EU regulators aim to limit the dominance of major American tech companies through the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
At the center of the dispute is an extensive list of features that regulators want Apple to share with third-party developers, including Wi-Fi connections, file transfers, and video streaming capabilities. Apple strongly opposes these requirements, arguing they would compromise user privacy and security.
The iPhone maker specifically called out Meta Platforms, stating the Facebook parent company has made numerous requests to access Apple's sensitive technologies under the DMA. Apple expressed concerns about Meta's track record regarding user privacy.
The conflict extends beyond just Meta, as the DMA aims to enable various developers to access key Apple features like Siri voice commands and payment systems. Apple contends it's being unfairly targeted, stating it's the only company required to share its innovations while maintaining its commitment to user privacy.
If Apple fails to comply with DMA rules, the EU could launch a formal investigation in early 2024, potentially leading to substantial fines of up to 10% of global annual sales. This regulatory pressure comes alongside an ongoing investigation into Apple's App Store policies, which may also result in major penalties.
The standoff represents a pivotal moment in the broader debate over tech regulation, platform openness, and the balance between competition and user privacy in the digital age.