EU Mandates Apple to Boost Interoperability in Digital Markets Act
▼ Summary
– The European Union has instructed Apple to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to promote fair competition and market contestability.
– Apple must allow access to nine previously restricted iOS connectivity features, including peer-to-peer Wi-Fi, NFC functionality, and device pairing, to improve integration with non-Apple devices.
– The EU has initiated two proceedings to ensure interoperability for connected devices and third-party app developers, focusing on technical documentation and communication.
– Apple faces penalties up to 10% of its global annual turnover for non-compliance, with the DMA mandating interoperability and banning self-preferencing.
– The EU aims to create a level playing field for third-party devices, while Apple argues that the DMA’s mandates are anti-innovation and could hinder technological progress.
The European Union has issued preliminary instructions to Apple on how to comply with interoperability provisions mandated by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This flagship regulatory reform aims to promote fair competition and improve market contestability.
According to the European Commission, Apple must enable device manufacturers and app developers to access nine previously restricted iOS connectivity features. These include peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connectivity, NFC functionality, and device pairing. The objective is to facilitate better integration of non-Apple devices with iPhones, enhancing user experience across a broader ecosystem. For instance, Bluetooth headphones, smartwatches, and connected TVs from other manufacturers should now work more seamlessly with iPhones.
This development follows the Commission’s initiation of two specification proceedings concerning Apple in September. The first proceeding focuses on ensuring interoperability for connected devices, including notifications and device pairing. The second addresses interoperability requests from third-party app developers, recommending improved access to technical documentation and more consistent communication from Apple. The DMA’s interoperability rules are part of a broader effort to ensure that core platform services provided by gatekeepers like Apple are accessible under fair conditions.
Apple, designated as a ‘gatekeeper’ under the DMA, faces significant penalties for non-compliance, which can reach up to 10% of its global annual turnover. The legislation outlines various compliance expectations, including bans on self-preferencing and mandates for interoperability. The Commission retains the authority to issue more detailed instructions to ensure effective adherence to these provisions.
The EU’s primary concern is that Apple has not been providing a level playing field for third-party connected devices. This includes the ability for non-Apple smartwatches to display iOS notifications properly or for non-Apple smart speakers to pair smoothly with iPhones. Apple has expressed dissatisfaction with the DMA and the specific interoperability mandates, arguing that the EU is unfairly targeting its business. In a briefing with journalists, Apple framed the Commission’s actions as anti-innovation and intrusive, suggesting that these moves could stifle technological progress.
As the DMA continues to reshape the digital landscape, the implications for Apple, other gatekeepers, and the broader technology ecosystem will be significant. Compliance with these new regulations will likely lead to a more open and competitive market, benefiting consumers and fostering innovation across the industry.
Source: TechCrunch
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